TO EVALUATE THE EFFECT OF PASSIVE SMOKING ON THE LUNG FUNCTIONS OF HEALTHY CHILDREN BY PEFR (PEAK EXPIRATORY FLOW RATE)

Dr. Sudhir Mehta*

ABSTRACT

Background: Peak expiratory flow rate is an effective measure of effort dependent airflow. It is relatively a simple procedure, and may be carried out in the field using portable instruments. Environmental passive smoke exposure especially from household significantly impairs PEFR, but the extensive literature has not been available on impact of household smoking on children. AIM: The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the effect of household passive smoking on the PEFR of children. Material and method: Two hundred healthy children of age group between 5-16 years with a history of passive smoking were recruited for the study. The PEFRs was measured by mini Wright Peak Flow Meter and compared with similar 200 children of same age and sex group. Results: There was significant difference between two groups. Conclusion: Stopping of household parental smoking can significantly improve respiratory health of children.

Keywords: Household, Passive smoking, Peak Expiratory Flow Rate.