In February 2020 researchers from Poland published the results of their study to assess the association between physical activity with the development of ear, nose and throat medical conditions. Information on lifestyle factors was collected via a school-based survey study amongst a population of elementary, junior and high school children and adolescents, aged 6-17 years. Results showed that increased adenoid problems were significantly associated with an increased frequency of cleaning/vacuuming whereas increased sinusitis appeared to be significantly associated with increased screen-based activities on weekdays. Allergic rhinitis was also seen to be more common in children who undertook less physical activity, were less often engaged in team sports, spent less time outdoors on school days and at weekends and spent more time in front of the computer on school days. The researchers therefore concluded that reduced physical activity with a greater sedentary lifestyle appeared to increase the risk of ear, nose and throat medical conditions.
Pazdro-Zastawny K et al. Lifestyle-related factors differentiating the prevalence of otorhinolaryngological diseases among 6-17-year-olds from Wrocław, Poland. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 2020 Feb 5;132:109934.