Department of Physiology, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Fort, K R Road, Bangalore
Cigarette smoking has been increasing at an alarming rate amongst the youth in India. This early and long term exposure could result in grave consequences later in life affecting their productivity and vitality. Although not clinically evident, bronchial hyper-responsiveness might be the earliest manifestation of a latent respiratory disorder.
To record the PEFR in smokers and non-smokers before and after the exercise and to compare the bronchial responsiveness between the same two groups.
The study included 30 smokers and 30 non-smokers aged 18–25 years. PEFR was recorded was recorded using Spirothor Wavefront Handheld Spirometer before and immediately after the performance of the Harvard Step Test.
On statistical analysis of the recorded data it was observed that PEFR in smokers before exercise was 8.46±0.6 L/s and in non-smokers was 8.58±0.6 L/s (P value >0.05). PEFR in smokers after the exercise protocol was 5.04±0.38 L/s and in non-smokers it was 8.38±0.58 L/s (P value <0.001)
Although PEFR is comparable in smokers and non-smokers at rest, bronchial responsiveness is significantly increased in smokers. This early sign could be considered as a screening tool for a respiratory disorder in its latent phase. If smoking cessation is not implemented at this level it may lead to grave consequences.
Bronchial responsiveness, exercise, PEFR, smokers
