Effect of Pulmonary Rehabilitation Training in Non-, Ex- and Current Smokers with Chronic Respiratory Disorders by the Measurement of Functional Capacity: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Title: Effect of Pulmonary Rehabilitation Training in Non-, Ex- and Current Smokers with Chronic Respiratory Disorders by the measurement of Functional Capacity: A Pilot Study Background: Earlier research shows efficacy of pulmonary rehabilitation in chronic lung disorders with regards to their smoking status, but not in all 3 groups together (i.e. Ex-,Never- and Current smokers). So, the goal is to find out effectiveness of pulmonary rehabilitation in chronic lung disorders with regard to their smoking status by the measurement of 6 minute walk distance. This study will help in identifying least benefited to most benefited group among 3 groups by pulmonary rehabilitation . Methodology : Total 15 patients of both gender and age 30-80 years were randomly selected and divided into 3 groups: Non-, Ex- and Current Smokers with Chronic Respiratory Disorders. Pulmonary Rehabilitation was given for 8 weeks, 3 times / week (30-40 minutes). Pre and Post PR (After 8 weeks), functional capacity was measured by 6 minute walk distance. Data was analyzed by SPSS (v16.0) - One way ANOVA to compare 3 groups and Post Hoc tests to detect the intergroup differences . Results: Pulmonary Rehabilitation was effective in all 3 groups and Functional Capacity of all patients was improved (p<0.05). Effectiveness of Pulmonary Rehabilitation was more in Non- Smokers compared to Current Smokers. (p<0.05) Conclusion: Effectiveness of Pulmonary Rehabilitation was significant in all smokers with chronic respiratory disorders but Non- Smokers were more benefited from Current Smokers due to their non-smoking status. These findings emphasized effectiveness of Pulmonary Rehabilitation and benefits of non-smoking status among patients with chronic respiratory disorders. So, we must encourage measures for smoking cessation at earliest in pulmonary rehabilitation program . Key words: Functional Capacity, 6 Minute Walk Distance, Pulmonary Rehabilitation, Smokers.