Relationship between Exposure to Hookah Smoke and Lung Capacity of Hookah Cafe Employees

Abstract

Background: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of exposure to hookah smoke on the respiratory capacity of employees working in hookah cafes in Bandar Abbas. Methods: A total of 75 employees of hookah cafes and 64 people in the control group were the target population. Participants without a history of smoking, diabetes, and hypertension were included in the study. First, the height and weight of subjects were measured and then a respiratory test was performed by an occupational medicine specialist. At the same time, a checklist was completed, which contained demographic characteristics, history of working in hookah cafes, pulmonary diseases, hypertension, smoking, exercising, and a second job. Results: The mean age of the case and control groups was found to be 31.41 and 30.73 years, respectively. The mean values of the indices in the case and the control groups were as follows: forced expiratory volume (FEV1): 84.4% and 89.9%, forced vital capacity (FVC): 91.5% and 91.1%, forced expiratory flow 25-75 (FEF25-75): 78.7% and 75.9%, and peak expiratory flow (PEF): 87.2% and 95.2%, respectively. A significant relationship was found between exposure to hookah smoke and the lung capacity of employees working in hookah cafes (P <0.001). Conclusion: Based on the findings of the study and in order to reduce passive exposure to hookah smoke and its negative consequences, officials should review and apply strict rules on hookah use and monitor and control the air quality inside hookah cafes.