Knowledge and Awareness of Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases among Smokers Population in Chennai, India: A Cross Sectional Questionnaire Survey

Aim: To analyse the knowledge and awareness of chronic lower respiratory diseases among the smoker population.

Introduction: Tobacco is a key toxin in our civilization. Tobacco use and smoking is currently one of the leading causes of death and morbidity in both developed and developing nations. Tobacco is made from a plant native to South America, specifically Peru and Ecuador. Tobacco was originally brought to Europe from America in the fourteenth century for medical purposes.

Materials and Methods: The study to evaluate Knowledge and Awareness of chronic lower

respiratory diseases among smokers population in Chennai, India. The targeted population for the study was 110 individuals within the age groups of 18-30. In this study, there was a formulation and distribution of a survey/ questionnaire, which was conducted among the students. The questionnaire consisted of twelve general questions to test not only their knowledge but also their awareness of the issue. Only completely filled online forms were included in the study. The filled responses were verified by two reviewers and the collected data was entered on the same day. The entered data was analysed using SPSS. Pearson Chi-square was performed to calculate frequencies of categorical variables.

Results: Symptoms cannot be seen and do not show up on medical tests. Some examples of symptoms are headache, fatigue, nausea and pain vary from each illness and diseases. 60% responded with their current symptoms as shortness of breath, 35% with coughing, 1.67% experiencing wheezing, 3.33% with lack of energy. Pearson Chi-square value was calculated, with values being statistically significant (p value is 0.000).

Conclusion: Smoking is clearly linked to systemic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, lung problems, and various cancers. Smoking is proven to be harmful to mothers and children in particular. Cigarette smoking has a detrimental impact on the oral cavity.