Knowledge about Air Pollution, Myths, and Fatalistic Beliefs: Evidence from Vulnerable Communities in Southern Chile

Résumé

Air pollution is one of the most critical environmental problems, with severe impacts on human health and quality of life worldwide. This study aimed to explore the relationship between knowledge about air pollution, myths, and fatalistic beliefs in adults from Temuco and Padre Las Casas of the Araucanía Region, Chile. The research employed a quantitative, cross-sectional design with a correlational-explanatory scope. The sample consisted in 255 participants (58.4% women, 41.6% men) with a Mage of 45.20 years (SD = 1.88). Regression analysis revealed that a lower level of education was significantly associated with a higher prevalence of fatalistic beliefs about air pollution (β = -.223, p = .003), while myths about air pollution were positively related to these beliefs (β = .123, p = .043). However, knowledge of the Atmospheric Decontamination Plan (PDA), gender, and age were not significant predictors. This finding highlights the importance of implementing evidence-based educational interventions to address misconceptions and foster individual and collective responsibility for reducing air pollution.