Comparative Assessment of Lung Function using Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) Between Tobacco Smoking and Non Smoking Students of the University of Jos

Abstract

Tobacco smoking in the form of cigarette is a common habit prevalent among undergraduates in higher institutions. Chronic tobacco smoking remains the primary risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Pulmonary function test provide an objective quantifiable measure of lung function. This study was undertaken to assess lung function using PEFR among smokers and non smokers. In this study 100 male students within the age range of 18- 35 years were recruited, 50 were smokers forming the case group and 50 were non smokers forming the control group. The result showed no significant difference in mean physical parameters between smokers and non smokers. The smokers were mainly mild smokers.  There was a significant decrease at P< 0.05 in PEFR of smokers when compared to non smokers. The actual value of PEFR decreased with increased quantity of smoking but this decrease was not statistically significant, indicating that airway obstruction may occur irrespective of the quantity or duration of cigarette smoking.

Keywords: PEFR, COPD, smokers, non smokers.