Perceptions of Information and Environmental Risks – Part Three: Results of the 2023 Santé publique France Barometer

Part 3 of the study on the level of information and perception of health risks related to environmental issues focused on exposures for which the public has limited ability to take action to reduce potential health risks, such as pollen, asbestos, or Legionella.; Seven out of ten people report being well-informed about the health effects of pollen (70.4%) and asbestos (66.3%). Conversely, the proportion of people who reported being poorly informed about the potential health effects of tap water quality increased between 2007 and 2023, and the public’s knowledge regarding Legionella is cause for concern. Thus, prevention and awareness-raising efforts regarding the quality and potential risks associated with drinking water appear to be important areas that need to be strengthened.; People aged 18 to 49 are less likely to report being well-informed on all the environmental topics studied. It would appear necessary to strengthen information efforts specifically targeting these populations, for example through schools or community organizations.; Occupational activity appears to influence the public’s perception of health risks related to nuclear power and asbestos: intermediate-level professionals, office workers, and manual laborers are more likely to perceive a high risk from these exposures. Prevention and the promotion of health and safety in the workplace thus appear to be a key lever for raising awareness of the potential health effects of these environments.; Engagement in certain behaviors increases with levels of information and risk perception regarding pollen, radioactivity, and DIY or home decor products. This supports the idea that knowledge of health-related risks could encourage public acceptance and involvement in adopting behaviors that benefit their environment and, consequently, their health.

Author(s): Mathieu Arnaud, Soullier Noémie

Publishing year: 2026

Pages: 24 p.

Collection: Studies and Surveys

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