Maine physicians see climate change as a health risk, but often don't discuss it with patients

MAINE PUBLIC • May 23, 2024

Most physicians in Maine believe their patients' health is at risk from climate change, but very few communicate it to their patients. The findings come from a new study published this week in the Maine Policy Review. More than 75% of respondents believe climate change is worsening medical issues, including asthma, tick-borne illnesses, and mental health. Researchers surveyed 100 physicians across multiple specialties throughout the state. Physicians identified very young and elderly people as the most vulnerable to climate change. Two-thirds indicated they were "extremely" or "moderately" concerned with the current health impacts of climate change. Nearly 40% said the are already observing the health impacts in their patients.