Peak expiratory flow rates in smoker asthmatics versus non-smoker asthmatics: a comparative analysis

Abstract

Background: Cigarette smoking and bronchial asthma can be a dangerous mix. The additive decline in pulmonary function can be assessed by a peak flow meter. This study was conducted with the objective of comparing the PEFR of asthmatic patients who smoke with the PEFR of asthmatic patients who do not smoke. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Medicine, Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, Pakistan. A total of 278 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria from 1^st January to 31^st August 2018 were included in the study by consecutive non-probability sampling. Results: The mean age of the subjects was 49±12.75 years. Female patients were 153 (55%) and males were 125 (45%). Mean PEFR in asthmatic patients who were smokers was 378.22±72.82 L/min and in asthmatic non-smokers it was 456.31±45.93 L/min. The difference in PEFR between two groups was statistically significant (p=0.0001). Conclusion: The PEFR of asthmatic smokers is significantly low from asthmatic non-smokers. We suggest that cigarette smoking quit program should be a part of disease management.

Pak J Physiol 2020;16(4):10?2