Current Evidence of the Burden and Impact of Climate Change on Respiratory Wellness: Impact of Online Medical Education on Physician Knowledge

<bold>Background:</bold> Climate change is increasingly affecting health, particularly the respiratory system. Physicians must stay informed on the evolving evidence regarding air pollution and climate-related respiratory impact. We developed an on-demand CME activity, <italic>Perspectives on Air and Health: The Multidimensional Impact of Climate Change on Respiratory Wellness,</italic> to enhance understanding of how climate change and air pollution affect respiratory health. <bold>Methods:</bold> PCPs and pulmonologists participated in a 30-minute online CME activity (https://www.medscape.org/viewarticle/1001421) led by 2 experts. Educational impact was assessed using a 4-question repeated-pairs pre-/post-assessment. A paired samples t-test measured changes in overall correct responses and confidence levels, while McNemar’s test analyzed question-level significance (P<.05). Cohen’s d estimated effect size (<.20 modest, .20-.49 small, .50-.79 moderate, ≥.80 large). The activity launched on 6/8/2024, with data collected through 10/21/2024. <bold>Results:</bold> 5,732 PCPs and 743 pulmonologists participated, with 210 and 48 completing pre-/post-questions, respectively. Knowledge improved in 50% of PCPs and 55% of pulmonologists regarding epidemiological evidence and the burden of climate change on respiratory disease (P<.001, Cohen’s d=.066-.067). Confidence increased for 43% of PCPs and 33% of pulmonologists in understanding their role in patient protection. <bold>Conclusions:</bold> This CME activity significantly improved knowledge of climate change’s respiratory impact among PCPs and pulmonologists. However, gaps in knowledge and confidence persist, highlighting the need for continued education.