Low Lung Function in Middle-Aged Smokers Impacts Health Status, Morbidities, and Mortality: An Observational Analysis of the Lovelace Smokers Cohort

Smokers with LLF without airflow obstruction exhibited reduced survival and an increased risk for development of chronic morbidities. Thus, spirometry may be used to identify at-risk individuals, allowing for early preventative interventions that can improve long-term health outcomes. <i>Take home message:</i> Among ever smokers without airflow obstruction, LLF is associated with increased mortality and poor health status. Spirometry may identify at-risk patients, enabling early emphasis on interventions with the potential to improve long-term health outcomes.