The Effects of Parental Smoking on Anthropometric Parameters, Peak Expiratory Flow Rate and Physical Condition in School Children

Abstract

Passive smoking in children is a considerable health problem, mainly arising from parental smoking. The objectives of the present cross-sectional study were to assess the impact of passive smoking on 1) anthropometric parameters; 2) peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR); and 3) physical condition in school children. The target population included 177 children attending elementary school 5^th to 8^th grade. Study subjects were divided into two groups according to parental smoking habits. Body weight and height were determined using a digital weighing scale and digital stadiometer; PEFR was measured between 8 AM and 10 AM using a Peak Flow Meter; and physical condition was assessed by the 6-minute run test.

Sixty-six percent of study children were exposed to passive smoking. The children of smoking parents had higher BMI [18.79 (17.50-21.13) kg/m²] than children of nonsmoking parents [17.90 (16.00-20.00) kg/m²; P=0.036]. There was no statistically significant difference in body height and weight. The children of smoking parents had statistically lower values of PEFR [M(IQR)=84 (78-88)%, M(IQR)=94 (89-101)%, respectively; P<0.0001] and 6-minute run test than children of nonsmoking parents [M(IQR)=2(1-3), M(IQR)=4(3-5); respectively; p<0.0001]. The results of the present study showed that exposure of school children to passive smoking by their parents resulted in an increase of BMI, impairment of lung function, and impairment of physical condition, especially in children of both smoking parents.