COMPARISON OF PROBABLE RISK FACTORS AND LUNG FUNCTIONS AMONG UNDERGRADUATE MEDICAL STUDENTS IN NORTHERN MAHARASHTRA- A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Background: Lungs, by virtue of their direct contact with atmospheric air, are naturally the first to bear the onslaught of air contamination. Many risk factors are associated with pulmonary dysfunction. It is necessary to rule out such risk factors as allergy, smoking, childhood-onset respiratory infection, familial history of respiratory diseases, and childhood dyspnea. Although many studies were conducted in the past, most of the risk factors were not considered and compared with lung function among young adults. Objective: To study and compare the lung function tests of young adult healthy college students with a history of exposure to risk factors and a control group. Methodology: A Total sample of 330 subjects were recruited for the study, and the participants were explained in detail about the procedure, and written informed consent was obtained. Information about demographic data, socio-economic condition, lifestyle factors and probable risk factors for lung dysfunction was collected using a proforma. Using a computerised spirometer, various pulmonary function tests like Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), Forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC in percentage, Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), Mean forced expiratory flow (FEF 25–75), and Tidal volume (TV) were measured. The lung functions of a control group and subjects with probable risk factors were compared and analysed by using appropriate statistical methods. Results: Systolic blood pressure and heart rate values were higher among the smokers, which was statistically significant. Lung function tests (FEV1, FVC and PEFR) were significantly decreased (P value<0.05) in individuals with a history of childhood dyspnea as compared to controls. FEF25-75 was decreased significantly (P value<0.05) among smokers and individuals with a history of allergy. FEV1 and FVC were significantly reduced in the case of the underweight and overweight groups. Conclusion: Smoking tends to increase blood pressure and heart rate along with a decrease in lung function, especially FEF25-75 parameter.  Other common risk factors which are associated with reduced lung function are a history of childhood dyspnea and a history of allergy, mainly affecting FVC, FEV1, PEFR and FEF25-75, respectively. Lung functions are reduced in the underweight group.