To study the Prevalence of obesity among medical students in relation with dietary habits

Abstract

Introduction: Worldwide obesity has nearly tripled since 1975.In 2016, 39% adults of 18 years and above were overweight and 13% were obese. Approximately 2.8 million deaths are reported as a result of being overweight or obese. Unhealthy food style, lack of physical activity, and stress are the major factors which contribute to obesity. So this study was done with the aim to estimate the prevalence of obesity among the Medical College students. To access the knowledge about risk factors causing obesity and to take preventive measures to avoid it as they are health educators of community. Objective: To determine the prevalence of obesity in medical students, to access their knowledge towards risk factors of obesity Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 500 medical students of D.Y.Patil Medical College Navi Mumbai from Jan - June 2019. Consent was obtained from the study participants after explaining the purpose of study. Data was collected using a pre-tested, semi-structured, self administered questionnaire which was validated by department of community Medicine. Anthropometric measurements were taken and body mass index was calculated. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data. Results: The prevalence of overweight and obesity were 36.8% and 11.1%. Overweight and obesity were more observed in boys (48.8 %, 11.6%) than girls (30%, 10.55%).. Conclusions: The prevalence was found to be high among medical college students which were contributed by various risk factors. This can be reduced by modifying their diet, engaging in regular physical activity. Keywords: Obesity, body mass index, Medical students