Abstract

SCHOJ, Verónica et al. Informing effective smokefree policies in Argentina: air quality monitoring study in 15 cities (2007-2009). Salud pública Méx [online]. 2010, vol.52, suppl.2, pp.S157-S167. ISSN 0036-3634.

Objective. To evaluate indoor air pollution in hospitality venues in Argentina. Material and Methods. PM_2.5 levels were measured in a convenience sample of venues in 15 cities with different legislative contexts following a protocol developed by Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Results. 554 samples were collected. Across all 5 smokefree cities the mean PM_2.5 level was lower during daytime vs. evening hours, 24 vs. 98 PM_2.5 respectively (p=.012). In the three cities evaluated before and after legislation, PM_2.5 levels decreased dramatically (p<0.001 each). Overall, PM_2.5 levels were 5 times higher in cities with no legislation vs. smokefree cities (p<0.001). In cities with designated smoking areas, PM_2.5 levels were not statistically different between smoking and non-smoking areas (p=0.272). Non-smoking areas had significantly higher PM_2.5 levels compared to 100% smokefree venues in the same city (twofold higher) (p=0.017). Conclusions. Most of the participating cities in this study had significantly lower PM_2.5 levels after the implementation of 100% smokefree legislation. Hence, it represents a useful tool to promote 100% smokefree policies in Argentina.

Keywords : tobacco smoke pollution; air quality, indoor; suspended particles; smoking [laws].

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