The Respiratory Effects of Regular Cigarette Smoking in Women: A Five-Year Prospective Study

Abstract

Over a five-year period a consistent habit of smoking or nonsmoking was maintained by 302 women (aged 25 to 54 years at the beginning of the study). There were 130 nonsmokers, 40 ex-smokers, and 15 light, 46 moderate, and 71 heavy smokers. Smokers without serious disability who had stopped smoking had a very low prevalence of respiratory symptoms and showed worsening of pulmonary function over the years similar to life-long non-smokers. Although there is a dose-related response to cigarettes, individual susceptibility also plays an important role in determining the respiratory effect of smoking. A range for change in ventilatory function over a five-year period in apparently healthy nonsmoking women is provided. Using this range, it is possible to identify susceptible smokers who show deterioration in ventilatory function that is more rapid than normal. Repeated spirometric studies may be useful in selecting a group at greatest risk of developing later disabling chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.