Deteriorated health-related quality of life in healthy male smokers

Objective: To analyze the association between smoking and health-related quality of life (HRQL) in male smokers compared to male nonsmoker, both with no history of chronic disease at 3 health centers in Seville, Spain.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of smokers and nonsmoker who were matched on the basis of potentially confounding variables (age, marital status, occupation, education, and health center). Data were compiled in interviews conducted by a qualified and previously trained interviewer. HRQL was assessed using the 36-item short form general health questionnaire (SF-36).

Results: Except for the physical functioning dimension, which refers to physical activities of daily living (P=.111), smokers had significantly worse (P< .05) HRQL scores measured with the SF-36 questionnaire. On average, smokers scored 10 points less than nonsmoker in the 8 HRQL dimensions. The greatest difference was observed in the dimensions reflecting mental health, particularly in limitations experienced as a consequence of emotional problems (emotional role score 14 points less for smokers; P=.001). When compared to national norms, the scores of smokers were on average 12 points lower in the 8 HRQL dimensions. The greatest differences were observed in physical role (31 points) and bodily pain (17 points).

Conclusions: Even smokers who have not developed acute or chronic comorbidity associated with cigarette smoking have a poorer HRQL than nonsmoker.