Work

Change in secondhand smoke levels in a public hospital in Budapest following anti-smoking policy implementation in 2011

Year: 2013

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Our previous 2009 study demonstrated high secondhand smoke levels throughout a public hospital in Budapest. AIM: To compare changes in indoor air pollution level between 2009 and 2012, before and after the Hungarian anti-smoking policy legislation adopted in 2011. METHODS: TSI SidePak AM510 Personal Aerosol Monitor was used. RESULTS: In-patient care department PM2.5 levels declined by 92% from 87.7 μg/m3 to 6.9 μg/m3. Non-patient care area PM2.5 level increased by 67% from 64.8 μg/m3 to 108.0 μg/m3. The increase was driven entirely by a large increase in the level in public toilets. Excluding these, there was a 83% drop in PM2.5 in non-patient care areas from 64.8 μg/m3 to 11.1 μg/m3. CONCLUSIONS: PM2.5 decreased significantly due to the 2011 law. However, smoking still occurred in the hospital, albeit in less frequently visited areas. A stricter enforcement of this beneficial law is needed to reach a comprehensive smoke-free hospital environment.

Source: Orvosi Hetilap

DOI: 10.1556/oh.2013.29594

Authors: Dávid László Tárnoki, Ádám Domonkos Tárnoki, László Csáthy, Mark J. Travers

Institutions: Semmelweis University, Jahn Ferenc Dél-Pesti Kórház és Rendelőintézet, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center

Language: Hungarian

Topic: Smoking Behavior and Cessation

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: bronze

OpenAlex ID: W2110442529