Effectiveness of deep breathing exercises on the peak expiratory flow rate in adult cigarette retailers exposed to environmental tobacco smoke using mini wright’s peak flow meter

Background: Passive smoking leads to lung impairment and an increased risk of lower respiratory tract illnesses as proven by many studies. Small Cigarette retailers like tea stall and Paan shop owners are exposed to passive Smoking throughout the working hours, and are prone to developing Respiratory Disorders. Aim: To assess the effectiveness of Deep Breathing Exercises on the Peak Expiratory Flow Rate in adult, non-smoking, cigarette retailers using a Peak Flow meter. Method: The study involved 50 Adult, Non-smoking, cigarette retailers exposed to the Environmental Tobacco Smoke. Group A was Intervention Group (n=25) and Group B was control (n=25). Group A was given Deep breathing Exercises for 1 week and PEFR was assessed pre and post intervention in both the groups. Results: Out of 36 subjects, 67% (n=24) had reduced Peak Flow Rates than normal predicted for them. Remaining 33% (n=12) had normal PEFR. Out of 36 subjects, 83% fell in the Green Zone (n= 30), 17% in the Yellow Zone (n=6) and none in the Red zone (n=0). Group A showed improvement in the Peak Flow readings (p<0.001). Conclusion: Deep Breathing Exercises are effective to improve Peak Flow Rates.