The Association Between Physical Fitness, Spirometric Indices, and Cognitive Function in School Children of Sunsari District, Nepal

Abstract

Background

Physical fitness and lung function affect cognitive development in children. This study investigates relationships between cardiovascular fitness, spirometric indices, and cognitive function among school children in Sunsari District, Nepal.

Objectives

The objectives of the study were to determine the association between cardiovascular fitness and cognitive function, examine the relationship between spirometric parameters and cognitive performance, identify the strongest predictors of cognitive outcomes, and explore differences in these variables across gender, school type, and different age groups.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of 120 children aged 12-16 years from government and private schools in Sunsari District was conducted. Physical fitness was assessed using YMCA 3-minute step test, lung function via spirometry, and cognitive function using Trail Making Test and Digit Span tests.

Results

Lower recovery heart rates and higher fitness index correlated significantly with better cognitive scores (r = -0.34, p < 0.01). Spirometric variables showed mild positive associations with cognitive performance (r = 0.13-0.18). Physical fitness (β = 0.418, p < 0.001) and digit span backward (β = 0.375, p < 0.001) were strongest predictors, explaining 28.4% of variance (R² = 0.284, F = 11.41, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Cardiopulmonary fitness and lung function significantly associate with executive and memory functions in adolescents. School-based physical activity interventions may enhance cognitive outcomes and academic performance.