ABSTRACT
Regarding the importance of air pollution issue for large cities, as Tehran metropolis, many plans, programs, projects and regulations have been developed to manage urban air pollution. However, most of them failed to decline the pollution. The purpose of this study is to pathologically analyze air-pollution control plans in order to offer effective solutions for Tehran metropolis. A qualitative content analysis and a semi-structured interview with 14 practicing professionals were used to identify key causes and sources of Tehran's air pollution, to recognize challenges and obstacles towards effective performance of air-pollution control plans in this metropolitan area, and to suggest the most effective controlling solutions. Challenges related to air-pollution control plans can be divided into two major categories: Firstly lack of integrated and organized stewardship and secondly those related to political, economical, social and technical environmental abbreviated as PEST, challenges. For effective control of the Tehran air pollution, the following eight controlling alternatives were identified: Systematization of plan preparation process, organizing the stewardship, standardization and utilization of new technologies and professional experts, cultural and infrastructural development, realization of social justice, developing coordination and controlling mechanisms, improving citizen's participatory capacity, and focusing on effective management of fuel and energy. Controlling air pollution in Tehran should be considered as a priority for policymakers to make enforcements through applying a systemic cycle of preparation effective and comprehensive plans. Further, implement the enforcements and evaluate the environmental impact of the plans through involving all stakeholders
ABSTRACT
To assess and compare knowledge, attitudes and practice regarding tobacco use of college students in Iran, US and Chain. A modified questionnaire used in each of country US, Chain and Iran. A total of 3089 usable surveys were collected [47.5% for male and 52.5% for female]. Both descriptive and inferential statistical tests were employed in data analysis. Compared to male participants, American's female and male students scored higher in knowledge, Iranian genders [both female and male] students scored higher in negative attitude scale of the questionnaire regarding tobacco use. Knowledge of female students was a little greater than male students and their attitude was more negative. Male respondents also were more likely to smoke cigarettes and use other tobacco products and in heavier quantities. The findings provide exploratory information about aspects of tobacco use among students [as an important and reference class of the Iranian society], and based on the results, recommendations are made to national health policy makers and health educators for reducing tobacco related risks through improving associated knowledge, attitude and practice