CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY ON HEALTH-RELATED STRESS AMONG UNDERWEIGHT, OBESE AND OVERWEIGHT UNDERGRADUATE MEDICAL STUDENTS

Abstract

The aim of this pilot study is to evaluate the stress among underweight, overweight and obese undergraduate medical students using BMI as a primary indicator. A total of 100 male and 100 female students were selected for the study, after obtaining the written informed consent. Participants were classified into overweight, obesity and underweight according to WHO guidelines. DASS-42 was used to assess depression, anxiety and stress. We have not observed significant difference in depression, anxiety and stress among normal, obese, over weight and underweight females and males. We recommend further detailed, multi center studies in this area.