Examination of the relationship between skin autofluorescence and lifestyle habits in young adults

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between skin autofluorescence (SAF) levels and lifestyle habits in healthy young adults. The study was conducted between January 2022 and December 2022 with 300 healthy young adults. The questionnaire form in which the participants’ sociodemographic characteristics, general habits and dietary habits were questioned, Mediterranean Diet Adherence Scale (MEDAS), International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were applied, anthropomet-ric measurements were taken by the researcher, and SAF levels were measured. At the end of the study, the mean SAF levels of the participants were observed to be 1.48±0.21 AU. SAF levels were found to be 1.49±0.21 AU in women and 1.47±0.21 AU in men. It was found that SAF levels did not differ significantly by gender (p>0.05). Smokers’ SAF levels (x=1.60 AU) were statistically significantly higher than non-smokers’ SAF levels (x̄=1.43 AU) (p<0.05). A significant correlation was observed between SAF levels and BMI (body mass index), waist circumference, hip circumference, waist height ratio, adherence to a Mediterranean diet and physical activity levels (p<0.05). No significant correlation was observed between participants’ sleep quality and their SAF levels. In conclusion, adopting healthy eating and lifestyle habits reduces SAF levels.