Comparative study of pulmonary functions test among different substances abusers.

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Toxicology
• Public Health

Background:

• Substance use poses a global health challenge affecting various age groups.
• The lungs are particularly vulnerable to damage from substance use, impacting overall lung function.
• Research on the pulmonary effects of diverse substances beyond cigarettes is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and identify changes in pulmonary function tests (PFTs) among users of different substances.
• To compare the impact of cannabis, heroin, methamphetamine, and alcohol on lung function.

Main Methods:

• An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted with 60 adult substance users at a psychiatric hospital.
• Participants were categorized into exclusive users of cannabis, heroin, methamphetamine, or alcohol.
• Pulmonary function tests (FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, PEFR) were measured and compared to normal reference values.

Main Results:

• 100% of substance users exhibited lung function abnormalities.
• Obstructive lung disease was diagnosed in 80% of patients, and restrictive lung disease in 20%.
• The mean FEV1/FVC ratio was significantly reduced across all substance groups, with cannabis users showing the lowest ratio (71.03% ± 11.3%).
• A significant inverse correlation was found between the duration of substance use and the FEV1/FVC ratio (r = -0.378, P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Substance abuse is strongly associated with frequent obstructive lung abnormalities.
• All investigated substances exert a detrimental effect on pulmonary function tests and respiratory health.
• Increased awareness, early detection, and timely intervention are crucial for mitigating the respiratory consequences of substance use.