Abstract

Objective: To find out the socio demographic factors of the citizens of Lahore, Pakistan and determine the level of knowledge and the preventive practices regarding smog.
Methodology: In this descriptive study, 300 citizens of Lahore were taken as respondents. Study time period was from November 1, to December 28, 2018. Convenient sampling technique was used. The data were analyzed using SPSS version20. Descriptive statistics for the qualitative data and chi-square test of significance was used to see any association between variables.
Results: Sixty eight percent respondents were dissatisfied with the air quality and 14% were satisfied. Eighty four percent were worried about the possible aggravation of smog. More than half of the respondent felt that the citizens were primarily responsible for the current situation. Sixty seven percent were taking protective measures inside the house, 59% did not use face masks while going outside.
Conclusion: Socio-demographic factors played an important part in the knowledge and perception of smog in citizens of Lahore. Majority of the respondents did not use face masks outdoors; however, they did adopt preventive measures indoors.

Key words: Smog, Haze, Air pollution, Health practices, Socio-demographic.