Olfactory dysfunction in passive vs active smoking

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study is to assess the olfactory functions of passive smokers compared to active smokers and nonsmokers. Methods: This prospective case-control study included 30 nonsmokers, 30 passive smokers, and 30 active smoker participants. All groups were matched for gender and age. The Sino-Nasal Outcome Test 22 (SNOT-22) and Sniffin' Sticks test battery were administered to all subjects. Threshold (T), discrimination (D), and identification (I) scores were noted. Olfactory function was subjectively assessed as 0: severe dysfunction and 5: no problem. Results: Overall, TDI scores of active smokers (24.78 ± 3.02) and passive smokers (24.90 ± 2.45) were significantly lower than nonsmokers (34.23 ± 3.46). There was no statistically significant difference between passive smokers and smokers (F(2,87) = 13.47, P