Abstract
A STUDY OF COPD IN NON-SMOKERS

Generally COPD is a disease predominantly seen in cigarette smoking population, but studies show that 5-12% of subjects with COPD are non-smokers. So, the purpose of the study is to study the clinical profile of COPD in non-smokers and to identify other risk factors of COPD. Fifty patients are subjected to PFT and patients with post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC <0.7 were selected and detailed history regarding occupation, biomass fuel usage and environmental tobacco smoke exposure was taken. Of total 50 patients, 76% were females, 66% had <5 years duration of illness. Cough and expectoration was present in all, followed by breathlessness and wheeze. History of biomass fuel exposure was present in 84% and environmental tobacco smoke exposure was present in 100%. Occupational exposure was present in only 34% and air pollution exposure was present in 16%. Environmental tobacco smoke exposure and biomass fuel exposure were significant risk factors. According to our study, occupational exposure and air pollution were not significant risk factors.