Examining Perceived Air Quality and Perceived Air Pollution Contributors in Merced and Stanislaus County

This study examines the perceived air quality and contributors to air pollution among residents of Merced and Stanislaus Counties in California’s San Joaquin Valley (SJV), one of the most polluted regions in the United States. A survey was conducted during the summer of 2017, gathering responses from 176 participants to assess their perceptions of air quality, sources of pollution, and behaviors related to air pollution awareness. Findings indicate that only 3.5% of participants perceived the air quality in their city as good, while 57.9% categorized it as unhealthy or unhealthy for sensitive groups. Participants identified cars and trucks as the primary sources of air pollution, followed by forest fires and factories. Seasonal differences in perception were also observed, with summer months being viewed as the most polluted. Additionally, participants living near major roadways reported higher concerns regarding air pollution’s impact on health. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that education was significantly associated with perceived air quality, while proximity to highways influenced perceptions of health risks. This study underscores the need for targeted interventions to raise awareness and promote self-protective behaviors, especially for vulnerable populations living near highways. These findings highlight the importance of localized public health strategies to address air quality concerns in SJV communities.