Purpose or Case Report: To understand pediatric radiologists’ attitudes toward climate change, perception of patient impacts, knowledge of the impact of health systems on global warming, and beliefs on the role of health systems in mitigating climate change impact. The secondary purpose was to understand geographic or generational differences.
Methods & Materials: Following approval by relevant SPR Board members, a 10-question survey utilizing SurveyMonkey was distributed via general membership email list in May 2025, with a reminder email 2 weeks later. The survey was extended through July 2025 to capture responses from new fellows. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed, and chi square tests were performed on Jamovi (Version 2.7.5.0).
Results: 158 of the 2,920 (5.4%) SPR members who received the survey, completed it. 115 (72.8%) respondents reported global warming was personally very or extremely important, with 80% of international radiologists reporting extremely important. There was no association between geographic residence and responses to this question (p=0.202); however, trainees and early career radiologists had increased rates of marking “very important” (p=0.041). More than half of respondents (54.4%) reported being very worried about global warming, with increased rates among international (75%) and early career (66%) radiologists. 108 (69%) believed global warming will harm patients a great or moderate deal, with greater concern among trainees and international radiologists compared to advanced career radiologists. Most respondents reported only limited or moderate knowledge of the impact of health care delivery on climate change. 55.7% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed radiologists play an important role in reducing the carbon footprint of delivering radiology services. In comparison, 68.4% agreed or strongly agreed radiology departments play a role and 74.7% felt health care systems should play a role in mitigation.
Conclusions: Pediatric radiologists and trainees recognize the importance of climate change and its impact on patients, though knowledge of sustainable practices and radiology implementation strategies remains limited. Trainees, early career and international radiologists reported higher levels of individual concern, concern for patients, and importance of climate change. Targeted education of pediatric radiologists and collaboration among various leadership levels in health care systems will be necessary to mitigate the carbon footprint of delivering radiology patient care.