Study of Pulmonary Functions in Air Conditioned Car Drivers: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Extensive use of air-conditioners (ACs) indoor as well as while travelling in cars has increased the risk of atopic sensitization and it may alter lung function as it not only controls temperature but also has a profound effect on surrounding environment. Objective: To evaluate the spirometry parameters of air conditioned car drivers. Design: The present study was carried out on 25 male air conditioned car drivers in the age-group of 20-40 years who were employed as AC car tourist taxi drivers since last 3 years and having exposure to ACs in cars for greater than 2 hours/day. Spirometry parameters such as Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in the first second (FEV1), Forced Expiratory Flow [FEF(25-75%)],and Maximum Voluntary Ventilation (MVV) were evaluated. The results were compared with that of the age, sex and socioeconomic status matched control subjects. Results: FVC, FEV1, FEF (25-75%) and MVV showed a significant decline in air conditioned car drivers as compared to controls. Conclusions: Air conditioned car drivers have significantly reduced lung function parameters compared to control subjects as measured by spirometry.