The effects of secondhand smoke exposure during adolescents on adult lung function

Abstract

Mainstream cigarette smoke is known to causes decreases in lung function. This is a potential concern for those subjected to secondhand smoke. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of secondhand smoke on young adults that either were or were not exposed to secondhand smoke during adolescence. Ninety- four subjects completed a carbon monoxide analysis, pre and post exercise pulmonary function testing and a maximal exercise treadmill test. Forty-four of the subjects were exposed to secondhand smoke during adolescence while the remaining fifty had no history of exposure. Forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory ventilation in one second (FEV1) and forced expiratory flow 25-75% of FVC were compared pre and post exercise as well as between subject groups. There were no significant differences observed between groups for pulmonary function testing or exercise capacity. Within the limits of this study, there is no evidence suggesting that adolescent secondhand smoke exposure cause deterioration of pulmonary function in young adults.