Investigation of Relationships Among Pulmonary Capacity, Physical Activity Levels, and Headache Impact in Young Adults

Asuman Saltan; Metin Sabuncu; Fatma Yeşil; Esra Uluç Karahan; Bülent Yiğit

doi:10.5334/paah.478

Abstract

Background: There is currently no study that concurrently investigates physical activity, sedentary lifestyle, pulmonary function, HIT-6 Score, and the impact of smoking in young adults.

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the relationships between pulmonary function, physical activity level, and headache occurrence among university students, with a focus on differences between smokers and non-smokers.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 207 university students (103 smokers and 104 non-smokers). Pulmonary function was assessed using Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV₁) and Forced Vital Capacity (FVC). Physical activity and sedentary behavior were evaluated using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). The impact of headaches on daily life was measured using the Headache Impact Test (HIT-6), and exhaled carbon monoxide (CO) levels were recorded to assess smoking exposure.

Results: Regression analysis indicated that FEV₁ significantly predicted HIT-6 Score in both smoker and non-smoker groups (R² = 0.092, p = 0.003; R² = 0.062, p = 0.012, respectively). Additionally, Body Mass Index (BMI) was a significant predictor of HIT-6 Score in the non-smoker group (R² = 0.097, p = 0.006).

Conclusion: FEV₁ and BMI are significant predictors of headache occurrence among university students. Furthermore, sedentary behavior and CO levels differentiate smokers from non-smokers, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions in young adult populations.

Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06680570, registered on july, 2024.

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Investigation of Relationships Among Pulmonary Capacity, Physical Activity Levels, and Headache Impact in Young Adults

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