Investigation of the lifestyle of medical students based on gender characteristics

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Relevance. The issue of a healthy lifestyle of medical university students is relevant throughout the educational process, since the well-being and objective state of health (both mental and physical) has a direct impact on the academic performance and professional development of young specialists in the field of healthcare. Purpose. The purpose of this study is to investigate the main factors of students� lifestyle and highlight gender characteristics. Methodology. A survey of 400 students of West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University was conducted on several key issues related to nutrition, sleep, rest, physical activity, morbidity, and financial needs. Results. The majority of the 5th year students rate their health as �good� (on average 54.9%), and the 1st year students (58.5%) consider their health to be �satisfactory�. Almost all students were satisfied with their living conditions, but at the same time up to 40% of the survey participants felt a lack of finances for food and clothing, and 38% of the 5th year boys noted a lack of money for entertainment. Most students consider their level of physical activity insufficient, while boys are engaged with more intensity than girls, but also spend less time outdoors. The issue of lack of sleep and proper nutrition is also acute and requires further research. Conclusions. This study showed that the majority of medical students try to lead a healthy lifestyle, and this health-promoting behaviour differed depending on gender, especially with regard to physical activity and diet. The results of the survey are valuable material for the development of principles for the prevention of acute and chronic diseases, and the introduction of strategies for maintaining the health of students from higher educational institutions. Keywords: prevention; gender differences; rational nutrition; physical activity; educational institutions