The Determinants of Academic Achievement in Medical Students: a Cross-Sectional Designed Multifactorial Approach

Abstract

Objective: Medical students have a heavy academic burden, hence, various factors can directly and easily affect their academic performance. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of hemoglobin levels, body composition, nutritional status and physical activity on academic achievement in medical students. Methods: 121 students (69 males, 52 females) participated in the study. Body compositions were recorded; data concerning nutritional habits, food consumption frequency and physical activity was obtained using a survey. The hemoglobin and hematocrit values measured in the physiology practice were recorded and the scores obtained from the committee exam were considered as academic achievement criteria. Results: Female students were found to be more successful than males (p=0.012). Smokers (p=0.007) and sugary-beverage consumers (p=0.022) were also more unsuccessful. Males who did not consume coffee daily were more successful than those who did (p=0.015). Additionally, males with moderate physical activity levels were more successful than those who had low physical activity levels (p=0.04). Furthermore, there was a moderate positive correlation between academic achievement and sedentary behavior (p˂0.05, r=0.265). Discussion: Based on our findings, we determined that smoking, coffee and sugary-beverage consumption may negatively affect academic success in medical students. Studying theoretical lessons daily for a sufficient period and getting moderate physical activity in leisure time can be recommended as tools for medical students to increase academic achievement.