Abstract
Background We examined the association between WBC count and lifestyle factors, and the effects of habitual exercise on WBC count.
Methods We conducted a questionnaire survey on 112 subjects undergoing a complete medical check-up at our hospital using computer-graded answer sheets to determine whether or not they (1) are currently suffering from mental stress; (2) smoke 20 or more cigarettes each day and; (3) exercise at least once a week. We also measured BMI to investigate the association between these factors and the WBC count. Furthermore, we analyzed abnormal WBC counts using logistic regression.
Results WBC count significantly increased in the subjects who were current smokers and those with a BMI≧25 kg/m2. Among the subjects who exercised regularly, we observed a significant decrease in WBC count of those with mental stress, and a predisposition towards decreased WBC count in those who were currently smokers; however, there was no significant difference in BMI. Moreover, current smoker status was an independent risk factor for abnormal WBC count.
Conclusion WBC count increased in the current smokers and overweight subjects with a BMI of 25 kg/m2 or above. The results, however, suggest that although habitual exercise at least once a week can prevent an increase in WBC count caused by smoking, it does not have any effect on the increase in WBC count caused by being overweight. (Ningen Dock 2010; 24: 7-11)
