Respiratory effects in relation to estimated tar exposure from current and cumulative cigarette consumption.

Relationships between estimated "tar" exposure from current and past cigarette consumption, were related to respiratory symptoms and function during the seventh survey (1981-1983) of the Tucson epidemiologic study of airways obstructive diseases. Smokers (n = 582; 280 males and 302 females) and exsmokers (n = 621; 345 males and 276 females), answered detailed questions on current and past smoking, and performed flow-volume maneuvers. Cough and phlegm were significantly associated with estimated "tar" exposure from current cigarette consumption. Cough, phlegm, and dyspnea were associated with reported deep inhalation in both sexes, while wheeze was so associated in females. In young smokers (less than 35 years), symptoms were more prevalent in those who had predominantly smoked cigarettes with estimated high "tar." Total exposure was more important in older smokers. Generally, exsmokers showed a lower prevalence of symptoms than smokers. Cross-sectional lung function measurements were significantly related to total estimated "tar" exposure and age. Multiple logistic regressions provided models which helped predict symptoms and lung function impairment in smokers and exsmokers on the basis of estimated "tar" exposure and pack-years of smoking.