Evaluation of Pulmonary Function Test and Peripheral Muscle Strength in Smoking and Non-Smoking University Students

Abstract

Objective This study was conducted to compare pulmonary function and peripheral muscle strength in smoking and non-smoking university students. Materials and Methods Data were collected from 120 volunteer university students aged between 18 and 25 years, who were divided into two groups regardless of gender after their smoking status had been determined. Data were collected using a sociodemographic form, the Pulmonary Function Test (PFT), and the Five Times Sit-to-Stand and Six-Minute Walk tests to assess peripheral muscle strength. These tests were applied to both smoking and non-smoking groups. Results According to GLI 2012 reference values, female non-smokers exhibited significantly higher FEV1 and FEV1/FVC z-scores compared to female smokers (p<0.001 and p=0.008, respectively), whereas no significant differences were observed among males. No significant differences were found between smokers and non-smokers in peripheral muscle strength tests overall; however, gender-specific analyses revealed significant differences in some tests. Conclusion Significant differences were found in some pulmonary function tests between smoking and non-smoking university students, while no overall difference was observed in peripheral muscle strength. Gender-based subgroup analyses suggested varying effects on muscle strength and pulmonary function. Developing targeted smoking awareness programs for university students is important for public health.