Effects of passive smoking on pulmonary functions of individuals in an urban area

ABSTRACT

Background: Passive smoking is a world health problem and part of the tobacco epidemic which victimizes mostly adolescents. Research articles have addressed the relation between passive smoking and respiratory efficiency in adult population and escalated the hazard of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer among adult passive smokers. The present study was conducted to analyze the effects of exposure to passive smoke on pulmonary functions among nonsmoking individuals. Aim and Objectives: The study was determined to assess the effects of passive smoking on pulmonary functions among individuals in urban region. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted on smokers, passive smokers, and nonsmokers (control), aged between 17 and 25 years. Ninety healthy individuals were placed in three different groups on the basis of questionnaire (Group A active smoker, Group B passive smoker, Group C control). Study was done with the help of spirometer and pulse oximeter. Results: Forced expiratory flow25–75%, Forced expiratory volume in 1 second/Forced vital capacity % values were significantly reduced in passive smokers as compared to control individuals (P < 0.001, P < 0.05). SpO2 level was decreased in passive smokers and active smokers, but it was not statistically significant. Conclusions: The present study showed a strong association between passive smoking and pulmonary abnormalities in individuals exposed to passive smoke. Health hazards caused by passive smoking should be controlled by creating awareness and regular health check-ups among people.