Relationship between smoking and pulmonary functions.

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.