More than 40% of all pregnant women in Pakistan are exposed to second-hand smoke (SHS) – causing approximately 17,000 still births in a year. SHS exposure in non-smoking pregnant women has increased the risk of stillbirth and congenital malformation along with behavioral and cognitive issues in children. Partner’s support during pregnancy is important for developing a better maternal health. Therefore, an evidence-informed conceptual framework will be developed to propose a behaviour change communication intervention, which will target poor or risky behaviors to promote behaviour modification that may result in positive maternal and fetal health outcomes. This will be a qualitative study incorporating an initial stage of systematic review followed by formative research.

For further information, see: https://www.ed.ac.uk/usher/respire/acute-respiratory-disorders/second-hand-smoke