ASSESSMENT OF BODY MASS INDEX AND RELATED RISK FACTORS AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS

Background: Body Mass Index (BMI) gives information about the relative weight for a given height based upon age and sex. The objective of this study was to assess BMI among medical students and to determine the related risk factors including diet and lifestyle. Material and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Department of Community Medicine, Gomal Medical College, D.I.Khan, Pakistan from March 15, 2015 to May 15, 2015. A sample of 100 subjects was selected by consecutive technique. Study instrument was a questionnaire. The demographic variables were gender, age groups, dietary habits and stress effect on diet whereas research variable was BMI. Frequencies and percentages were calculated. Data were analyzed by descriptive analysis plan. Results: Out of 100 subjects, 69(69%) were in normal range, 22(22%) were overweight and 3(3%) obese and 6(6%) were underweight. Males were 50(50%) and females 50(50%). Sixty four(64%) males were normal, 32(32%) were overweight, 4(4%) were obese and none was underweight. Seventy four (74%) of female respondents were normal, 12(12%) were overweight, 2(2%) were obese and 12(12%) were underweight. In the age group 18-20 years, 20(20%) were normal, 4(4%) were overweight and 1(1%) was obese and 3(3%) were underweight. Among the respondents that had no serving per day of fatty food, 44(44%) were normal, 7(7%) were overweight, 3(3%) were obese and 3(3%) were underweight. Among respondents whose diet was not affected during stress 2(2%) were underweight, 12(12%) were normal, none were obese and 5(5%) were overweight. Conclusion: Female students 21-23 years, having no serving of fatty food per day whose diet decreased during strees showed better BMI. This study reflects the general trend of weight gain especially in male students.