Study of pulmonary functions in air conditioner users and non users

Air conditioning may affect the human health since it has profound effect on our environment than just lowering temperature. Hyperventilation of cold dry air causes bronchoconstriction in asthmatic patients. Cold dry air is what we inhale while using AC's; hence alteration in pulmonary functions may also be simulated in AC users. Modern style of living in urban area is responsible for airway allergic diseases.

This study was planned to observe the effect of air condition (AC) on pulmonary functions.

The study group contain 30 subjects who were using AC in their cars for at least 2 hours daily since last 6 months and 30 subjects who did not use AC as a controls. All the subjects are male and age group between 20 to 30 years. The pulmonary functions were assessed using spirometer in room.

Experimental protocol was explained and consent was taken. History was taken and clinical examination (general and systemic) done for inclusion and exclusion criteria. Statistical analysis was done by unpaired t test. P value less than 0.05 considered as a significant.

Age, Height and Weight are not statistically significant in study group and controls. Forced vital capacity (FVC) and Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV₁) are not significant in both group. Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), Forced expiratory flow (FEF) are significantly decreased in AC users. FEF25-75% which is the flow rate over the middle half of the forced vital capacity (FVC) is significantly decreased in AC users.

Significant decrease in PEFR and FEF25-75% in AC users predispose towards the mild respiratory limitation.