Association between smoking and chronic low back pain among medical students

On account of their demanding academic environment chronic low back (CLBP) is a common musculoskeletal disorder among medical students, which is particularly worrying. Smoking is a risk factor that is known to cause various health issues, and has been associated with CLBP, but the specific relationship between smoking and chronic low back pain has still not been well explored.

This study aims to investigate the association between smoking and chronic low back pain among medical students in Iraq.

A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, involving face-to-face interviews with 200 medical students aged 18 years and older. Data were collected on the demographic characteristics, smoking behaviors, and chronic pain experiences, using a pre-designed questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (version 25) and employing chi-square tests to assess the association between the smoking status and chronic low back pain. SITE: Baghdad University, College of Medicine.

Two hundred medical students aged 18 years and older.

No intervention.

Demographic characteristics, smoking behaviors, and chronic pain experiences.

A significant proportion of students (51%) reported smoking currently, with cigarettes being the most commonly used product. The prevalence of CLBP was 64%, with an average pain severity of 4.6 (±1.61). Notably, among smokers, 81 individuals reported experiencing CLBP compared to 47 non-smokers (p=0.0001), indicating a strong association between smoking and the presence of CLBP.

The findings highlight a significant association between smoking and CLBP among medical students, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address smoking cessation and the prevention of CLBP in this high-risk population. Further research is warranted to explore the underlying mechanisms and develop effective strategies for improving student health and well-being.