Association between physical activity and pulmonary function among middle-aged and older adults

Objective : Regular physical activity has several health benefits, and it is critical to investigate whether it also has advantages in pulmonary function for the general population. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the association between regular physical activity and the decline in pulmonary function among middle-aged and older South Korean population. Methods : Data from 2014 to 2019 of Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analyzed. Physical activity was measured using Global Physical Activity Questionnaire, and it was defined as sufficiently active groups and performing more than 2 days per week of muscle-strengthening exercisesaccording to guidelines. Pulmonary function was measured based on spirometry results. Using multiple logistic regression analyses, adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated. Results : Of the 16,014 population over the age of 40, 7,177 were male and 8,837 were female participants, with 36.3% male and15.8% of female having pulmonary functional defects. After adjusting all covariates, the male population who performed physical activity had significantly lower likelihoods of pulmonary function defect (OR: 0.86, CI: 0.75–0.97) than inactivity group. This association was prominent in recreation-related and muscle-strengthening activity. However, the results of female population were not significant (OR: 1.04, CI: 0.88–1.23). Conclusions : Engaging in physical activity were associated with lower likelihoods of pulmonary dysfunction in male population. Regular physical activities might be recommended for improved pulmonary function in this group, with more emphasis on recreation-related, muscle strengthening activities.