Lung India (Jan 2007)
Respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function tests in school teachers of Shimla
Abstract
Objectives: This study, using a questionnaire and pulmonary function tests (PFTs), was aimed at assessing the prevalence of respiratory diseases and the impact of environmental factors on these diseases. Materials and Methods: 201 schoolteachers, residing in an urban area at moderate altitude (2200m), were administered a standardized questionnaire and subjected to PFTs. The data obtained was statistically analyzed. Results: 28.35% subjects had one or more chronic symptoms. Shortness of breath was present in 16.41%; wheeze in 14.43%; cough in 8.46%; sputum production in 8.46%; and wheeze with shortness of breath in 6.97%. The frequency of symptoms increased with age and smoking. Pulmonary functions were lower in subjects with symptom(s) as compared to those who were asymptomatic; forced expiratory vol-ume in one second (FEV1) showed the greatest reduction amongst the parameters studied. Functions were significantly lower in smokers and those using hydrocar-bon fuels. 3.98% had bronchial asthma; the prevalence was higher in females at 4.48%. The overall prevalence of chronic bronchitis was 8.46%; however among smokers this was 29.16% and in non-smokers 5.65%.
