Abstract
INTRODUCTION:Smoking and second hand smoke(SHS) are frequently seen in prisons.
MATERIAL-METHODS:This study included prisoners and staff in Bolvadin Closed and Open Prison.All volunteers underwent standard spirometry(PFT).A questionnaire about smoking behaviours was performed.
RESULTS:179 volunteers with 109 prisoners and 70 of prison stuff were included.18 immates and 2 prison stuff had the diagnosis of COPD; 22 prisoners(20.2%) and 4 prison stuff(5.7%) had COPD.
There were 123 smokers(68.7%),26 ex-smokers(14.5%) and 30 non-smokers(16.8%).There was an increase in the rate of smoking in 41.8% of inmates(the most seen reason:stress),no change in 39.6% and decrease in 18.7%.89.4% of participants told that they were exposed to SHS in prison.Pulmonary symptoms(49.2%) were statistically high in smokers compared with non-smokers and ex-smokers(p=0.000).There was a statistically significant relationship between exposure to SHS and presence of COPD(p=0.043),and pulmonary symptoms(p=0.008).The number of cigarettes smoked per day increased statistically significant at the prisoners with COPD(p=0.05).
DISCUSSION:The frequency of smoking and SHS in prison was considerably high.The restriction of smoking areas and the existence of non-smoking wards may reduce it.The rate of COPD was found also high.Therefore, typical symptoms about COPD should be examined carefully and routine screening of prisoners with PFT about COPD should be considered.
- © 2014 ERS