The Association Between Cigarette Smoke Exposure and Impaired Respiratory Function Among Fishermen

Abstract

Background : Fishermen May experience various occupational exposures , including cigarette smoke from themselves or people around them . Long-term exposure to tobacco smoke can cause airway inflammation and damage and May reduce pulmonary function . Occupational exposures such as engine fumes , dust , and environmental conditions May further increase respiratory risks. Objective : To determine the relationship between cigarette smoke exposure and respiratory function impairment among fishermen. Methods : This analytical observational study used a cross-sectional design . The sample consisted of 84 fishermen selected using purposive sampling. Cigarette smoke exposure was assessed based on smoking status, duration of exposure , number of cigarettes consumed per day , and second-hand smoke Respiratory exposure​ function was measured using spirometry , including FEV₁, FVC, and FEV₁/FVC ratio . The association was analyzed using the Chi- square test and odds ratio with a significance level of α=0.05. Results : A total of 48 respondents (57.1%) had high cigarette smoke exposure , while 36 (42.9%) had low exposure . Respiratory function impairment was identified in 37 respondents (44.0%). Among respondents with high exposure , 29 (60.4%) had respiratory impairment , compared with 8 (22.2%) among those with low exposure . Statistical analysis showed a significant association between cigarette smoke exposure and respiratory function impairment (p<0.001; OR=5.35). Conclusion : Cigarette smoke exposure was significantly associated with respiratory function impairment among fishermen​​ with high exposure had a greater likelihood of respiratory impairment than those with low exposure