Prevalence of Obesity and Associated Dietary Habits among Medical Students at King Khalid University, Southwestern Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Healthy eating is a crucial approach to improving overall health, encompassing a well-balanced diet of natural and fresh foods, plenty of fruits and vegetables, and foods rich in minerals and vitamins. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of obesity and associated dietary habits among medical students at King Khalid University, Aseer, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted through face-to-face interviews. A structured predesigned questionnaire was used to collect data. Results: A total of 540 medical students were included; 43.3% of participants were aged 20–22 years, 24.8% were in the 3rd year, and 82.0% had an average income level. Of them, 21.9% were overweight and 14.6% were obese. There was a significant association between obesity and grade (p = 0.004). Significant differences were observed between males and females in adding sugar to beverages, the frequency of eating out, cooking meat, and drinking water (p < 0.05). The predictors of obesity were being male (OR = 3.5, 95% CI [1.6–7.8], p = 0.002), age (OR = 1.8, 95% CI [1.1–3.0, p = 0.019], being at grade 2 (OR = 38.8, 95% CI [4.0–375.8], p = 0.002), having grilled meat (OR = 0.42, 95% CI, [0.20–0.99], p = 0.048), using artificial sweeteners [OR = 0.24, 95% CI [0.08–0.73], p = 0.012], and drinking sparkling bottled water (OR 8.6, 95% CI [1.2 333–63.8], p = 0.034). Conclusions: The study revealed a high prevalence of obesity and overweight among medical students of both sexes. It recommends education on healthy eating habits, balanced nutrition, and regular physical activity, as well as gender-specific health initiatives, nutritional counseling, and the inclusion of physical activity.