Prevalence and Factors Influencing Obesity among Medical Students, Salem District, Tamilnadu.

Abstract

Background:   Obesity is a significant worldwide health issue, associated with higher rates of morbidity and chronic illnesses. Its rising prevalence in both developed and developing countries is largely attributed to sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy dietary patterns, and psychosocial stress. Medical students are particularly vulnerable to weight gain due to demanding academic schedules, prolonged study hours, irregular meals, inadequate sleep, and limited physical activity. Despite their medical knowledge, many adopt unhealthy coping mechanisms such as frequent fast-food consumption, emotional eating, and increased screen time. Academic pressure and stress may further contribute to unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. Assessing the prevalence and identifying factors influencing obesity among medical students is essential to design targeted preventive strategies and promote healthier behaviors among future healthcare professionals.

Objectives:

• To estimate the prevalence of obesity among medical students


• To determine the associated biological, behavioral, and lifestyle-related risk factors.

Methodology:   A cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 medical students. Data on BMI, demographics, diet, sleep habits, screen time, physical activity, and family history were collected via semi structured questionnaires. Data was imported to IBM SPSS statistical software version 27. Statistical analysis included chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression to identify significant predictors of obesity.

Results:   A total of 44.5% of participants were overweight or obese.  Obesity was significantly correlated with family history (p < 0.001) and much more common in females (p = 0.004). Lower frequency of physical activity showed a significant correlation with obesity (p = 0.002), while exercise duration and perceived barriers were not significant. . There were no apparent correlations between dietary factors, such as the use of processed foods and caloric drinks. Obesity was significantly correlated with screen time exceeding four hours per day (p = 0.001). Screen usage, family history, and sex were found to be independent predictors by multivariate analysis.

Conclusion:   Obesity among medical students is influenced by biological and lifestyle factors, particularly hereditary predisposition, inactivity, and high screen exposure. Despite high awareness of associated risks, behavioral change remains limited. Interventions promoting reduced screen time and increased structured physical activity may be effective in mitigating obesity risk in this population.