Secondhand Smoke Exposure in European Hospitality Venues
Author Information
Author(s): Maria J. Lopez, Manel Nebot, Marco Albertini, Pierre Birkui, Francesc Centrich, Monika Chudzikova, Maria Georgouli, Giuseppe Gorini, Hanns Moshammer, Maurice Mulcahy, Maria Pilali, Eulalia Serrahima, Piotr Tutka, Esteve Fernandez
Primary Institution: Public Health Agency of Barcelona
Hypothesis
What are the levels of secondhand smoke exposure in hospitality venues across 10 European cities?
Conclusion
Hospitality venues in European cities without smoking regulations have very high levels of secondhand smoke exposure.
Supporting Evidence
- 97.4% of samples showed nicotine presence.
- Nicotine levels were highest in discos/pubs and lowest in fast-food restaurants.
- Significant differences in nicotine levels were found between smoking and nonsmoking areas.
Takeaway
This study found that many bars and restaurants in Europe have a lot of secondhand smoke, which can be very harmful to workers.
Methodology
The study measured vapor-phase nicotine in 167 hospitality venues across 10 European cities using passive samplers.
Potential Biases
Some venues with lower SHS levels may have been less likely to permit sampling.
Limitations
The sampling was based on convenience, which may lead to underestimation of SHS levels.
Participant Demographics
Hospitality workers in various venues across 10 European cities.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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