Effect of stress during exam time on immunity - A Survey based study

Abstract

Recent research indicates an escalating prevalence of stress among students during exam time. Our study aims to explore the correlation between stress induced by exams, its impact on immunity, and the varying effects of stress levels on students' health outcomes. A random online questionnaire survey involving 252 students across three educational levels, school, undergraduate, and postgraduate, have been conducted in this study. This study assessed stress levels, related symptoms experienced during exams, and stress-related health outcomes. The data were analyzed using Venn diagrams and statistically interpreted with Pearson correlation analysis and one-tailed ANOVA. The results revealed that across all three educational levels, females experience higher stress levels than males during exam periods. Additionally, females facing similar stress levels were found to be more susceptible to health issues than their male counterparts. Increased stress levels were correlated with higher incidences of weakness and digestive problems. These findings are consistent with previous research indicating that females are significantly more affected by stress than males and that stress is associated with adverse health outcomes. Our study underscores the need for further investigation into stress and immune response dynamics. Future research could explore blood biomarkers to understand these relationships better.