A study conducted through collaboration between Hacettepe University’s Faculty of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation and Faculty of Medicine has been selected for the “Best Abstracts Linked to Sustainability” collection at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) 2026 Congress.
The study, conducted in collaboration between the Department of Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation at Hacettepe University’s Faculty of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation and the Department of Pulmonary Diseases at Hacettepe University’s Faculty of Medicine, was selected for the “Best Abstracts Linked to Sustainability” collection at the 2026 Congress of the European Respiratory Society (ERS).
The study, entitled “Exploring Air Quality Awareness in Adults with Chronic Lung Diseases,” was conducted by Aslıhan Çakmak Önal, Elif Kocaağa, Aydan Aslı Aksel Uylar, Melda Sağlam, Ebru Çalık, Ziya Toros Selçuk, Deniz İnal İnce, and Naciye Vardar Yağlı. In addition to being presented as an abstract at the congress, the study was featured in a special exhibition area showcasing the best sustainability-themed abstracts throughout the event.
The study, conducted among 90 adults with chronic lung diseases, found that despite most participants having adequate health literacy, significant gaps remained in their knowledge of air quality. While 64% of participants reported that they were unfamiliar with the Air Quality Index (AQI), 31% stated that they had never heard of the health effects of air pollution. Only 3% reported regularly monitoring the Air Quality Index.
As part of the study, participants received a brief educational session on air pollutants, the health effects of air pollution, and how to monitor the Air Quality Index. Following the session, 41% of participants stated that they would consider the Air Quality Index when choosing where to engage in physical activity, 88% reported that their knowledge of the subject had increased, and 86% considered the educational session necessary.
The researchers emphasize that even individuals with chronic lung diseases who have adequate health literacy may have limited awareness of air quality and its implications for everyday life and physical activity planning. They note that brief, targeted educational interventions may help individuals take air quality into account when planning their physical activities.
Ahead of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31), which Türkiye will host in Antalya in November 2026, these findings highlight not only the health impacts of air pollution but also the importance of considering air quality when planning physical activity.
