A Cross-Sectional Study on Lung Function Status of Adults in Delhi

Abstract

Introduction: Air pollution is a major determinant of several lung diseases. With air pollution being a cause of concern in Delhi, present study aimed to assess proportion of individuals with impairment of lung function and factors associated with it. Methodology: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among adult population of Delhi. Data were collected by interview of subjects, with spirometry done on all subjects using portable spirometer. Statistical Analysis: Categorical variables were presented as percentages and compared using chi‐square test. Logistic regression analysis was done for independent predictors of lung function impairment. Significance was considered at P ≤ 0.05. Results: Total 3019 individuals were screened and 34.35% had lung function impairment, majority having restrictive disorder. Univariate analysis showed impairment was slightly higher in women, though not significant. Significantly more proportion of subjects with impairment were in higher age group, with lower levels of education, in working population and in those living in Delhi for longer duration. Students had lower risk of impairment when compared to those doing office job. Most of the findings were substantiated by multivariate analysis. Conclusion: Though spirometry is not an ideal screening test, this study does reflect that more than one-third of study subjects had impaired lung function, with those in higher age group having higher odds for lung function impairment, probably indicating the cumulative effect of air pollution. Measures for curbing air pollution are hence need of the hour and other broader determinants of health should be addressed through evidence-informed public policies and actions across all sectors.