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. 2010;52 Suppl 2(0 2):S157-67.
doi: 10.1590/s0036-36342010000800011.

Informing effective smokefree policies in Argentina: air quality monitoring study in 15 cities (2007-2009)

Verónica Schoj  1 , Ernesto M Sebrié, María Elizabeth Pizarro, Andrew Hyland, Mark J Travers
Affiliations

Informing effective smokefree policies in Argentina: air quality monitoring study in 15 cities (2007-2009)

Verónica Schoj et al. Salud Publica Mex. 2010.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate indoor air pollution in hospitality venues in Argentina.

Material and methods: PM₂.₅ 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 smoke free cities the mean PM₂.₅ level was lower during daytime vs. evening hours, 24 vs. 98 PM₂.₅ respectively (p=.012). In the three cities evaluated before and after legislation, PM₂.₅ levels decreased dramatically (p<0.001 each). Overall, PM₂.₅ levels were 5 times higher in cities with no legislation vs. smoke free cities (p<0.001). In cities with designated smoking areas, PM₂.₅ levels were not statistically different between smoking and non-smoking areas (p=0.272). Non-smoking areas had significantly higher PM₂.₅ levels compared to 100% smoke free venues in the same city (twofold higher) (p=0.017).

Conclusions: Most of the participating cities in this study had significantly lower PM₂.₅ levels after the implementation of 100% smoke free legislation. Hence, it represents a useful tool to promote 100% smoke free policies in Argentina.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declaration of conflicts of interest: We declare that we have no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Particle Air Pollution During Different Times of the Day in Comprehensive and 100% Smoke-Free Cities
Figure 2
Figure 2. Pre- and Post Law Particle Air Pollution in the Cities of Bahía Blanca, Neuquén and Godoy Cruz
Figure 3
Figure 3. Measurements of Air Pollution in Four Venues From the City of Olavarría With No Legislation
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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