KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE ABOUT OBESITY AMONG MBBS STUDENTS

Abstract

Obesity carries significant health implications for both chronic diseases and mortality. The importance of obesity as a health problem in the US is an increasing evident. Studies undertaken in metropolitan cities of Pakistan had revealed an increased incidence of obesity in school children. The lives of medical students are shaped by work, college and social environment that promote inactivity and overeating, leading them to become obese. This study was carried out to evaluate knowledge and attitude of medical students regarding obesity.A Cross Sectional Descriptive Study was conducted in October 2020. Students of all five classes of MBBS (first year to final year). Consent was taken and online questionnaire was filled due to Covid Restrictions. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 21.262 students participated in the study, aged between 17-25 years. About one third of the students (30.3%) considered themselves as obese. Majority (92.4%) have the basic knowledge about obesity. Majority (91%) have the knowledge about Obesity being a disease. About 78% of participants strongly agreed Obesity as a Health indicator. More than one third (41%), were likely to do exercise while others do try to exercise in different intervals to keep themselves protected against obesity. About two third (66%) of the students use various interventions to keep in good shape.Majority of medical students have knowledge and an appreciable attitude towards obesity. Awareness of medical students should be focused on healthy diet and positive effects of physical activity.