Association between respiratory symptoms and lung function among Shisha smokers in Kano, Nigeria

Abstract The prevalence of water-form tobacco smoking (Shisha) has increased among youth in the last several years. It may have been partially due to misconception among smokers that water pipe smoking (WPS) is safer than cigarette smoking. The aim of the study was to determine the pattern of respiratory symptoms and lung function among Shisha smokers. A total number of one hundred and thirty-five (135) adult Shisha smokers participated in this study. 111(82.2%) were males and 24(17.8%) were females. Respiratory symptoms were assessed using respiratory symptoms questionnaire, American thoracic society division of lung diseases (ATS-DLD-78). Spirometer (MSO4) was used to assess the lung function. Descriptive statistics of frequency and percentage was used to summarize the data and inferential statistics of Spearman Rank Correlation was used to test the relationship between pattern of respiratory symptom and lung function. All analyses were performed using SPSS version 20, at an alpha level P < 0.05. Common respiratory symptoms observed were shortness of breath, wheezes and cough with phlegm was in these individuals. Moderate positive correlation between wheezes occasionally apart from cold and FEV1 ( r = .383; p = .000) so also, a weak positive correlation between cough with phlegm lasting for 3 weeks or more in a year ( r = .229; p = .008), breathlessness and FEV1 ( r = .175; p = .042). while a weak negative correlation between attack of wheezes ( r = .150; p = .083), producing phlegm ( r = .217; p = .012) and FEV1 was noted. A weak positive correlation between wheezes occasionally apart from cold ( r = .299; p = .000), breathlessness ( r = .191; p = .026) and FVC. While a weak negative correlation between producing phlegm ( r = -.172; p = .045), cough with first smoke ( r = -.180; p = .037), wheezes with cold ( r = -.207; p = .016) and FVC. The respiratory symptoms are present in Shisha smokers and these symptoms may affect their lung function. The use of Shisha and all tobacco products should be banned and law enforcing authorities should take strict action against people violating such a ban.