Effect of yoga on lung function tests and mental health among medical students: a longitudinal before-after study
Sowmya Lingudu, M. Vineela Priyanka, Gadam Ramya
International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health September 30, 2026 DOI: 10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20263631 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Longitudinal pre-post interventional study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Undergraduate medical students willing to participate in a 12-week yoga program; those with severe respiratory diseases and current smokers were excluded |
| Intervention | pranayama |
| Duration | 12-week intervention |
| Measures | Pulmonary function tests (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) |
| Key findings | After a 12-week structured yoga intervention, medical students showed significant improvements in pulmonary function parameters (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC) and a significant reduction in Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) scores, suggesting better mental well-being. The authors argue that incorporating yoga into medical education may be an effective, low-cost strategy for promoting physical and psychological well-being. |
Abstract
Background: Medical students often experience high levels of academic stress, sedentary lifestyle, and irregular routines, all of which can adversely impact both physical and mental health. Yoga, that integrates asanas, pranayama, and meditation, has gained increasing attention in modern health research for its potential holistic benefits. This study aims to evaluate the effect of a structured yoga intervention on lung function tests and mental health among undergraduate medical students.
Methods: A longitudinal pre-post interventional study conducted among medical students who are willing to participate in a 12-week yoga training program, while those with severe respiratory diseases and current smokers excluded. Baseline assessments included pulmonary function tests and mental health evaluation using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Participants underwent a structured yoga intervention for an above said period. Post-intervention assessments were performed using the same standardized instruments. Pre- and post-intervention values were compared using appropriate statistical tests, with a p-value <0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: Mean age of the study participants was 20.3±1.7. Following intervention, the Yoga participants showed significant improvement in pulmonary function parameters, including FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC. Mean PSS-10 scores showed a significant reduction, indicating improved mental well-being.
Conclusions: Regular yoga practice was associated with significant improvements in lung function and mental health among medical students. Incorporating yoga into medical education may serve as an effective, low-cost strategy for promoting physical and psychological well-being.