Comparison of pulmonary function and respiratory symptomatology in university student smokers according to physical activity level and gender

Background: Smoking in young adults may negatively affect respiratory health, whereas physical activity could help preserve lung function. However, evidence regarding this relationship among university students who smoke remains limited. Objective: The aim of this study was to compare lung function and perceived respiratory symptoms among university students who smoke, based on their level of physical activity (PA) and sex. Materials and methods: The sample consisted of 22 university students (11 women and 11 men), divided into 9 active and 13 sedentary individuals. The measurement of respiratory symptom perception and lung function was conducted using the Saint George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) and spirometric values through forced spirometry with a portable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 6 spirometer. Sedentary students reported greater perceived respiratory symptom impact, with significantly higher scores in the impact dimension of the SGRQ, whereas differences in the total score did not reach statistical significance. No statistically significant differences were observed between active and sedentary participants in spirometric parameters or 6-min walk distance. Results: Women showed higher scores in the activity dimension of the SGRQ and significantly lower spirometric values compared with men. Overall, only weak or moderate associations were observed between perceived respiratory symptoms and objective measures of pulmonary function. Conclusions: In conclusion, in this sample of young smokers with low cumulative tobacco exposure, perceived respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function showed limited correspondence, and PA level did not emerge as an independent predictor of objective respiratory outcomes. Spirometric assessment appears to provide a more objective evaluation of respiratory health than self-reported symptom questionnaires in this population.