Table 4 Decline in lung function from 1987 through 2004 among 68 welders and 24 non-welders stratified on smoking status at baseline. Crude and adjusted average difference (2004 minus 1987 values) and 95% confidence limits (CL).
From: A prospective study of decline in lung function in relation to welding emissions
Measure of lung function | n | Baseline values | Average crude decline | Average adjusted1decline | Difference in decline [welders – referents, (95% CL)] | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Smokers | ||||||
Welders | FEV1, L | 32 | 4.26 L | 0.85 L | 0.856 L | 0.15 L (-0.15 to 0.45) |
Non welders | FEV1, L | 122 | 4.39 L | 0.72 L | 0.704 L | Reference |
Non-smokers | ||||||
Welders | FEV1, L | 36 | 4.50 L | 0.56 L | 0.559 L | -0.05 L (-0.28 to 0.18) |
Non welders | FEV1, L | 122 | 4.43 L | 0.61 L | 0.607 L | Reference |