The impact of screen time on breathing patterns and respiratory health in college students

With increasing digitalization, prolonged screen time has become a prevalent lifestyle factor among college students. While excessive screen use is linked to postural dysfunction, its impact on breathing patterns remains underexplored. This study investigated the relationship between screen time and respiratory function in college students. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 80 students (mean age: 21.4 ± 2.3 years), categorized into low (≤4 hours/day) and high (>4 hours/day) screen time groups. Respiratory assessments included chest expansion, spirometry (FVC, FEV₁), respiratory rate, and breath-holding time. Forward head posture (FHP) was also evaluated. Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression analysis examined associations between screen time and respiratory outcomes. Students with high screen time exhibited significantly reduced chest expansion (p < 0.001), lower FVC and FEV₁ (p < 0.01), increased respiratory rate (p < 0.001), and shorter breath-holding time (p = 0.002). Screen time negatively correlated with chest expansion (r = -0.48, p < 0.001) and positively with respiratory rate (r = 0.52, p < 0.001). Regression analysis indicated screen time and FHP as significant predictors of reduced lung function (R² = 0.41, p < 0.001). These findings suggest prolonged screen exposure alters breathing patterns and impairs respiratory function in college students. Postural correction, breathing exercises, and screen-time management strategies may help mitigate these effects. Future studies should explore long-term implications and interventions to preserve respiratory health in the digital era.