ASSESSMENT OF LIFESTYLE FACTORS INFLUENCING BODY MASS INDEX AMONG UNDERGRADUATE MBBS STUDENTS IN URBAN UNIVERSITIES

Vaneeza  Iftikhar; Anees Rafique

Authors

Vaneeza Iftikhar The University of Faisalabad, Pakistan. Author
Anees Rafique United Medical and Dental College Karachi, Pakistan. Author https://orcid.org/0009-0000-3417-0364

Keywords:

Body Mass Index, Cross-Sectional Studies, Diet, Lifestyle, Medical Students, Obesity, Physical Activity, Sleep

Abstract

Background: Body mass index (BMI) is a key indicator of nutritional status and a predictor of future metabolic disorders. University students, particularly those enrolled in demanding medical programs, are at risk of developing unhealthy lifestyle habits that can influence BMI. Medical students often face academic pressures, irregular meal patterns, physical inactivity, and inadequate sleep, increasing the likelihood of overweight and obesity. Understanding the relationship between lifestyle behaviors and BMI is essential for targeted health interventions.

Objective: To evaluate the association of dietary habits, physical activity, and daily routines with BMI among undergraduate MBBS students in urban universities.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over four months among 377 MBBS students from urban universities in Lahore, Pakistan. Participants were recruited through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing dietary intake, physical activity (Global Physical Activity Questionnaire), sleep duration, and screen time. BMI was measured using WHO criteria. Data were analyzed using SPSS v26, with independent t-tests and ANOVA applied to assess associations between lifestyle variables and BMI, considering p<0.05 as statistically significant.

Results: The mean BMI of participants was 22.8 ± 3.7 kg/m², with 59.9% in the normal range, 19.1% overweight, 9.8% obese, and 11.1% underweight. Frequent fast-food consumption and high screen time were positively associated with higher BMI (p=0.01), while regular breakfast and moderate-to-high physical activity were protective against overweight (p=0.02 and p<0.001, respectively). Inadequate sleep was also linked to elevated BMI (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Lifestyle factors such as diet quality, physical activity, sleep, and screen exposure significantly influenced BMI among MBBS students. Early interventions promoting healthy eating, regular exercise, and balanced routines are critical to preventing overweight and obesity in future healthcare professionals.

Author Biographies

Vaneeza Iftikhar, The University of Faisalabad, Pakistan.

Student of Bacholar in Dietatics and Nutrition, The University of Faisalabad, Pakistan.
Anees Rafique, United Medical and Dental College Karachi, Pakistan.

United Medical and Dental College Karachi, Pakistan.

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