Publication

This paper explores the effects of indoor air pollution in the context of gender, respiratory illnesses and public health in developing countries. The author shows how differences in gender roles result in differential exposure to indoor air pollution among males and females. He presents evidence linking smoke from cooking fuels to acute respiratory infections in children and chronic bronchitis in women. The paper concludes that actions to reduce smoke exposure must include use of cleaner fuels and efficient, better-ventilated stoves as well as educating people about the risks of exposure to indoor smoke.