Assessing Health Professionals' Awareness of the Social and Health Impacts of Energy Inefficiency: An Empirical Study

Abstract

Introduction: Healthcare personnel play a critical role in identifying and addressing health risks associated with energy deprivation; however, their level of knowledge and perceptions in the Albanian context remain insufficiently explored. This study aims to assess healthcare professionals’ awareness of the health impacts of household energy inefficiency and to examine differences according to gender and age. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among healthcare professionals employed in healthcare services and academia. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing awareness of energy inefficiency and its health implications. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were applied, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Statistically significant differences were identified across gender and age groups. Female respondents demonstrated higher awareness of psychosocial consequences (88 vs. 19, p < 0.001), sleep disturbances (32 vs. 0, p < 0.001), and heat-related health risks (105 cases reported, p < 0.001). Male participants showed greater recognition of socioeconomic dimensions, including poverty-related impacts (45 vs. 53 among females, p < 0.001). Age-related differences were also observed, with participants aged 18–34 showing higher awareness of household energy inadequacy (32 cases, p < 0.001), while those aged 50–64 more frequently reported worsening of chronic conditions (35 cases, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Gender and age are significant determinants of healthcare personnel’s awareness of the health impacts of energy inefficiency. These findings highlight the need for targeted educational and training interventions to strengthen health professionals’ capacity in recognizing and addressing energy-related health risks, emphasizing the integration of energy poverty considerations into public health strategies.