Relationship between Smoking and Pulmonary Functions
Relationship Between Smoking And Pulmonary Functions
Keywords:
Smoking, Pulmonary function tests (PFTs), Lung volumes and capacities, Chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD)Abstract
Background: Smoking is the most important factor contributing to the development of chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease and is one of the major health risks in modern times. Aim: The purpose of the
present study was to determine the relationship between cigarette smoking and pulmonary function tests
between various groups of smokers and non-smokers. Methods: The study was carried out in 100 male
subjects between 19-52 years of age. The subjects were drawn from the community such that they could be
grouped as non-smokers (25), mild smokers (25), moderate smokers (25), and chronic smokers (25) according
to their questionnaire response. Pulmonary Function Tests were carried out in each subject with a
computerized spirometer. The various data was collected, compiled, statistically analyzed and valid
conclusions were drawn Results: Results indicate that smoking is generally associated with lower levels of
pulmonary functions. . It was established that pulmonary functions decreased with increasing number of pack
years. The negative association was evident in most lung functions and capacities, but was largest and most
progressive in FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FEF25-75% and PEFR. Conclusion: Pulmonary function data in smokers indicate
narrowing of smaller airways, chiefly bronchioles. Rapidly declining pulmonary functions in smokers with
increasing number of pack years is predictive of increased risk of development of chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD). The study observed that spirometry was an effective and easy method for
detection of COPD in risk group population like smokers and thus promotes smoking cessation efforts to
reduce the burden of COPD in the community
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