Original article: Study Of Pulmonary Functions In Smokers And Non-Smokers In Sugarcane Harvesters In Rural Maharashtra

Abstract: Background: In India smoking is a common habit prevalent in both urban and rural areas. Cigarette and bidi smoking has extensive effects on respiratory function and is clearly implicated in the etiology of a number of respiratory diseases. Objectives: 1. To study and compare the pulmonary function tests among smokers and nonsmokers in a rural area. 2. To study the role of possible associated factors and relation of type, quantity and duration of smoking on the pulmonary function tests. Setting: Pravara Rural Hospital, Loni, District Ahmednagar, Maharashtra. Study design: Cross sectional study. Materials &Methods: The pulmonary function tests were assessed on computerized spirometer in 400 male sugarcane harvesters comprising of 200 smokers and 200 non smokers and results were compared. Statistical analysis: SPSS Statistical Software. Results & Conclusion: Almost all the pulmonary function parameters were significantly reduced in smokers and obstructive pulmonary impairment was commonest. Thus by spirometry a spectrum of lung disorders may be detected at an early stage and subsequent morbidity can be minimized.