Current Assessment of Dietary Habits, Physical Activity, and Related BMI among Students of People’s University of Medical & Health Sciences for Women, Nawabshah (SBA)

Abstract

Background: Eating habits and adequate physical activity play significant roles in enhancing growth, development, health, and physical and mental fitness of individuals. University students, especially those in medical fields, often face demanding schedules and rigorous studies that can lead to altered dietary habits and lifestyles. Assessing these patterns is crucial for identifying potential nutritional or eating disorders and understanding their impact on students' health. Objective: The study aimed to assess dietary habits, physical activity levels, and related BMI among female students of People’s University of Medical & Health Sciences for Women, Nawabshah (PUMHSW). Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted over one and a half months within the premises of PUMHSW. A total of 331 female students from MBBS and Allied Sciences programs were selected using convenient sampling. Inclusion criteria included students aged 18-25 years enrolled in any year of their respective programs, while exclusion criteria excluded those below 18 or above 25 years old and postgraduate students. Data were collected through a structured English-language questionnaire administered via face-to-face interviews. The questionnaire covered variables such as income, education, parental occupation, dietary habits, physical activity, and BMI. Verbal consent was obtained from all participants, ensuring confidentiality. Ethical approval was obtained in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, with descriptive statistics including percentages, means, and standard deviations. Results were presented using frequency tables, charts, and graphs. Results: The majority of students were aged 21-23 years (61.6%), with most having a normal BMI (59.5%). Among the participants, 23.0% were underweight, 13.6% were overweight, and 3.9% were obese. Regular sleep patterns were reported by 68.9% of students, while 31.1% had irregular sleep patterns. A significant proportion (76.7%) did not engage in regular physical activity. The distribution of BMI classifications showed that 23.0% were underweight, 59.5% had normal BMI, 13.6% were overweight, and 3.9% were obese. A higher frequency of normal BMI was observed among MBBS students compared to Allied Sciences students. Conclusion: The study concluded that while most students had a normal BMI, a notable proportion were underweight, overweight, or obese. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to promote healthier lifestyles among university students, focusing on dietary habits, physical activity, and sleep patterns to prevent future health issues.