Respiratory Problems And Quality Of Life Among Individuals Living İn Containers Following The 2023 Kahramanmaraş Earthquake

Background: The 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes displaced hundreds of thousands of individuals across Türkiye, leading to prolonged residence in temporary container settlements. Although housing conditions are recognized as key determinants of health, limited research has evaluated the combined effects of long-term container living on respiratory function, muscle strength, fatigue, sleep quality, and overall quality of life. This study aimed to comprehensively assess these parameters in adults residing in container settlements in Malatya approximately 20 months after the earthquakes. Methods: This cross-sectional field study included 247 adults aged 25–55 years who had been living in container settlements for at least 12 months. Sociodemographic data, respiratory symptoms, fatigue, allergic reactions, and sleep quality were collected through structured interviews. Spirometry (FEV₁, FVC, FEV₁/FVC, predicted values) and handgrip strength were measured using standardized protocols. Physical activity and quality of life were assessed with the IPAQ-Short Form, PSQI, and SF-36. Between-group comparisons were conducted using t-tests, Mann–Whitney U, and chi-square tests. Correlations were evaluated using Pearson or Spearman methods. Results: Participants were predominantly women (69.2%) with a mean age of 44 ± 11.75 years and a mean BMI of 27.33 ± 4.55 kg/m². Dyspnea (mMRC ≥ 1) was present in 42.9% of participants, and 28% demonstrated poor sleep quality. Mean FEV₁/FVC was 80.84 ± 6.82%, while handgrip strength values were below normative expectations (right: 27.80 ± 12.33 kg; left: 27.06 ± 13.12 kg). Dyspnea showed significant negative correlations with spirometric indices and muscle strength, and positive correlation with fatigue. Women and unemployed individuals exhibited significantly lower handgrip strength, higher fatigue, and poorer spirometric ratios. Participants reporting allergic reactions demonstrated lower physical and psychosocial health scores. Conclusion: Adults residing in container settlements nearly two years after the earthquakes exhibited measurable impairments in respiratory function, muscle strength, sleep quality, and overall well-being. These findings highlight the persistent multidimensional health burden associated with long-term temporary housing. Strengthening environmental conditions and implementing respiratory, physical activity, and psychosocial rehabilitation programs may mitigate adverse outcomes in displaced populations.