KARACHI: A new global air quality study released on Friday shows that indoor air pollution is 89 per cent lower in smoke-free places as compared to those where smoking is allowed. The findings underscore the need to pass and implement a comprehensive smoke-free-workplace law in Pakistan.
The study measured air pollution levels in 1,280 restaurants, bars, transportation outlets and other places in 24 countries, including Pakistan, a press release issued by the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) said on Friday.
The study showed that lowest level of indoor air pollution in smoke-free places was found in Ireland and New Zealand, where laws existed to make all indoor workplaces including restaurants and bars smoke-free. In all 27 smoking venues were tested in Pakistan and it was found that air pollution level is nearly six times higher than the smoke-free places in Ireland, the press releases said.
An AKU spokesperson said the study showed the need for the govt to take measures to promulgate and implement a law to protect the health of citizens who are exposed to the hazard of smoke pollution.
Ismailimail 