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Climate Change and Health Risk Perceptions of Arkansas Small Farmers through the Application of the Health Belief Model

Author

Listed:
  • Rachel B. Hale

    (Department of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA)

  • Keneshia Bryant-Moore

    (Department of Health Behavior and Education, College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA)

  • Anna Eichenberger

    (STEAD Scholars Program, Arkansas Department of Health, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA)

Abstract

Climate change poses health risks to Arkansas small farmers. Farmers face an increased risk of heat-related illnesses (e.g., heat exhaustion, cerebral vascular accidents, and cardiovascular issues) and work-related injuries, death, and mental health conditions due to climate change. This cross-sectional survey employed the health belief model (HBM) as its theoretical framework. This study aimed to assess the health status of small farmers, climate change beliefs, adaptive agricultural practices, and the perceived effects of climate change on health. Study data were collected using non-probability sampling methods from small farmers ( n = 72) with a gross farm income of < USD 250,000. The study findings show that 93% of participants reported good–excellent health, 69% believe the climate is changing and getting warmer, 58.3% believe people are responsible for the changes in our climate, and 75% believe the changing climate impacts farmers. Among the HBM predictive variables, participants reported self-efficacy (50%), perceived susceptibility (48.6%), and perceived severity (43%). Only 16.7% of farmers reported believing they have all the information needed to prepare for climate-related health impacts. This study suggests small farmers have protective factors and adaptive capacity, including health status, income, and education levels, but believe they lack the information necessary to protect their health from climate change.

Suggested Citation

  • Rachel B. Hale & Keneshia Bryant-Moore & Anna Eichenberger, 2024. "Climate Change and Health Risk Perceptions of Arkansas Small Farmers through the Application of the Health Belief Model," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 21(7), pages 1-24, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:21:y:2024:i:7:p:955-:d:1440023
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Derick A. Akompab & Peng Bi & Susan Williams & Janet Grant & Iain A. Walker & Martha Augoustinos, 2013. "Heat Waves and Climate Change: Applying the Health Belief Model to Identify Predictors of Risk Perception and Adaptive Behaviours in Adelaide, Australia," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 10(6), pages 1-21, May.
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