Physical Activity and Nicotine Dependence among University Students
Main Article Content
Abstract
Introduction: substance use has been identified as one of the main public health problems due to its short, medium, and long-term negative effects. Among the problems observed in the university population, the decrease in physical activity stands out.
Objective: to analyze the relationship between physical activity and the level of nicotine dependence in students at the Universidad Mexiquense del Bicentenario.
Method: this was a quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional, and correlational study. The sample consisted of 250 university students. To assess the variables, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to measure levels of physical activity, and the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence was applied to evaluate the level of nicotine dependence.
Results: a positive and significant correlation was identified between vigorous physical activity and the level of nicotine dependence (r2 = .177; p = .031).
Discussion and conclusions: a positive and statistically significant relationship was identified between vigorous physical activity and the level of nicotine dependence among university students. Female students enrolled in health-related programs demonstrated greater commitment to self-care and the adoption of healthy behaviors, such as regular exercise.
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