Comparative Prevalence of Abnormal Spirometry Results in Female Adults Residing in a Community Without Electric Supply: Impact of Biomass Fuel Exposure - Study Protocol

Nicole Jacob DJ Mangilit, Ma. Czharlene A. Manango, Patrick H. Mangua, Bryce Anthony C. Manlapit, Nicklous Jan S. Marañon, Maria Patricia Anne G. Marcelo, Gabriella Therese D. Martin, Joaquin Angelo G. Martin, Reine Arielle M. Masangkay, Andrea Nicole M. Matawaran, Tim S. Trinidad, Ilona Grace D. Tiburcio

Dec 2025 DOI 10.35460/2546-1621.2025-0220     Access   

Abstract

Background: About one-third of the world's population relies on traditional solid biomass for cooking, heating and lighting. The use of biomass fuels is a practice in the Philippines, especially the use of dry firewood. One community familiar with this practice is Our Lady of Banneux ANCOP Community (OLBAC). Despite this, specific data on these effects in Filipino communities remains limited. 

Objective: To determine if there is a difference in the prevalence of abnormal spirometry in female adult residents of OLBAC who have significant and nonsignificant exposure to biomass fuel smoke. 

Methods: A convenience sample of 54 adult female residents of OLBAC in San Mateo, Rizal, will be recruited in this analytical cross-sectional study. After enrollment, they will undergo a single spirometry procedure to determine their lung function status. The primary data to be collected from the experimental groups are FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC ratio. The data will undergo descriptive and `inferential analysis, and the lung function variable will be analyzed with logistic regression to account for confounding variables. 

Expected Results: The descriptive data analysis will determine the mean values of lung function parameters (FEV1 and FVC) where long exposures may lead to an abnormal FVC compared to short or no exposure. The results in the inferential analysis may indicate a negative association between length of biomass fuel exposure and percentage predicted FVC among the sample, suggesting that more prolonged exposure to biomass fuel increases the risk of impaired lung function.

 

Key Words: Biomass fuel, biomass fuel exposure, spirometry, obstructive lung diseases, lung function

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