Effect of lung function disorders and physical activity on smoking and non-smoking students

BACKGROUND: The number of young smokers tends to increase, which increases the risk of causing respiratory problems. This is exacerbated by low physical activity which also reduces lung function. The aim was to determine the differences in lung function and levels of physical activity among smokers and non-smokers. METHOD: This research was conducted in October 2019-January 2020. The research design was cross-sectional, using purposive sampling method. Pulmonary function measurements used spirometry, while physical activity measurements used a modified IPAQ. RESULT: This study involved 124 subjects, consisting of 62 smokers and 62 non-smokers. smoker group and 62 non-smoker group respondents. There was a significant difference (p = 0.00) between smokers (42 of 62) and non-smokers groups (60 of 62). And the results showed no difference (p = 0.907) in the level of physical activity between the smokers and non-smokers, although most of the subjects had moderate levels. CONCLUSION: Student smokers had greater respiratory problems and lower physical activity than non-smokers.