Preliminary Survey on Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices about Indoor Air Pollution among Residents

Background: Indoor air pollution (IAP) is a growing public health threat, but little is known about knowledge, attitudes, and practices among urban residents in Myanmar. Rapid development in cities like Yangon and Mandalay might exacerbate pollution while increasing time spent indoors. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to Indoor Air Pollution (IAP) among residents of Yangon and Mandalay. Methods: A preliminary cross-sectional survey was conducted with 150 participants, with 58% from Yangon and 42% from Mandalay. Sociodemographic details, knowledge, attitudes, and self -reported practices related to Indoor Air Pollution (IAP) were assessed using an online self -reported questionnaire. Knowledge was scored based on correctly identifying sources, possible health effects, and mitigation approaches. Attitude questions utilized 4 -point Likert scales, while practice questions employed a binary response (yes/no). Frequencies were used as summaries for sociodemographic, knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Results: Most participants correctly identified cooking fuel (80%), poor ventilation (69.33%), and mold (62%) as sources of pollution. Furthermore, 82.67% of respondents identified eye, nose, and throat irritation as health effects of prolonged exposure to indoor air pollution. Regarding management systems, the highest response (95.33%) indicated opening doors and windows for ventilation. 68.67% strongly agreed that air quality is important but 60.7% felt they lacked control over home air quality. Many participants reported opening windows for ventilation (92.96%) and avoiding indoor smoking (79.33%), while only 28% used air purifiers. Conclusion: The majority of respondents could identify sources of Indoor Air Pollution (IAP) in the house, possible health effects, and IAP management strategies. Few respondents identified furniture and home renovation as sources. Respondents agreed that air quality is important. However, only a few of them reported using an air purifier. An educational intervention related to Indoor Air Pollution (IAP) should be provided to enhance a better understanding of IAP in Myanmar.