Relationship between handgrip strength and lung function among healthy male young adults with adjustment of covariables

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to determine the association between handgrip strength and respiratory parameters among healthy male young adults while controlling potential confounding factors. Design and Sitting: This was a cross-sectional study design, conducting among college students at Jazan University. Methods: A total of 50 healthy young males were involved in the study. We recorded demographic details and physical activity through a questionnaire. Lung function parameters, including vital capacity (VC), force VC (FVC), and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), were assessed using a spirometer. Handgrip strength was measured through an electronic handheld dynamometer. Results: After adjusting for covariates such as physical activity, body mass index, and smoking status, dominant and nondominant handgrip strength values were significantly positively correlated with VC, FVC, and FEV1 (P < 0.05). In addition, handgrip strength was significantly correlated with % predicted VC, % predicted FVC, and % predicted FEV1 (P < 0.05), except for the correlation between nondominant handgrip and % predicted VC. Conclusion: This study suggests a moderate relationship between handgrip strength and lung function parameters in male young adults. Longitudinal studies targeting the young adult population should investigate the relationship between handgrip and lung function over time and assess how changes in muscle strength may influence lung function and health outcomes.