Arbak, Peri MeramGüleç Balbay, EgeYildiz-Gülhan, PınarBalbay, Öner AbidinAnnakkaya, Ali NihatBayram, Hasan2025-10-112025-10-1120251536-59481076-2752https://doi.org/10.1097/JOM.0000000000003489https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12684/21322Objectives To evaluate pulmonary functions in volunteers and assigned personnel involved in search and rescue or logistical activities during the early and late stages of a severe earthquake. Methods A total of 287 individuals, were administered within the first 45 days and at least after 3 months following their return. Results Among those involved in search and rescue activities, the forced expiratory volume in the first second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC), absolute maximum mid flow rate (MMFR), and % predicted MMFR were significantly lower than those involved in other activities (p < 001). The absolute carbon monoxide diffusion capacity (DLCO) and % predicted DLCO values measured at least 3 months after working in the earthquake zone were significantly lower than the initial measurements. Conclusions Environmental conditions in earthquake zones may cause respiratory function impairments in search and rescue workers. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.en10.1097/JOM.0000000000003489info:eu-repo/semantics/closedAccessEarthquakePulmonary FunctionsRescue WorkersArticle2-s2.0-105010428355Q2