Evaluation of Allergic Reactions and Pulmonary Function in Individuals Working in Small Container-Like Spaces

Objective: The aim of this study was to objectively evaluate the presence of allergic reac-tions and pulmonary function in individuals working in small container-like spaces in Malatya following the February 6, 2023, Kahramanmaraş-centered earthquakes, and to examine their associations with physical activity, sleep quality, grip strength, and quality of life. Methods: This cross-sectional and descriptive study included 90 volunteers (aged 25–55 years) who had been working in container-like small spaces for at least two years. Sociodemographic characteristics, smoking status, and history of allergic reactions were collected using structured questionnaires. Pulmonary function was assessed using portable spirometry (FEV₁, FVC, FEV₁/FVC). Physical activity level was evaluated with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire–Short Form (IPAQ-SF), sleep quality with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and quality of life with the Short Form-36 (SF-36). Grip strength was measured using a digital dynamometer, and the highest value was used for analysis. Results: Of the participants, 92.2% were male, and the mean age was 39.0±9.5 years. The prevalence of self-reported allergic reactions was 5.6%. While FEV₁% (68.9±12.4) and FVC% (64.1±11.3) values were relatively low, the FEV₁/FVC ratio was pre-served (0.86±0.06). As the mMRC dyspnea grade increased, significant decreases were observed in FEV₁% and FVC% values (p< 0.001). Pulmonary function pa-rameters showed significant associations with fatigue and the physical func-tioning and physical role subscales of the SF-36. Conclusion: Individuals working in small container-like spaces demonstrated a tendency toward reduced ventilatory capacity without overt airway obstruction, along with dyspnea-related pulmonary function impairment. These findings highlight the importance of early screening strategies (spirometry and dyspnea scales) and environmental interventions aimed at improving ventilation, ergonomics, and physical activity in such work environments.