Knowledge, Attitude and Practices regarding Obesity Among Medical Students in Faisalabad, Pakistan

Rameen Shahid; Areeba Naeem; Mehr Muhammad Adeel Riaz; Sumera Badar Ehsan

doi:10.29054/apmc/2020.560

Rameen Shahid 4th Year MBBS Student, Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad Pakistan
Areeba Naeem 4th Year MBBS Student Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad Pakistan
Mehr Muhammad Adeel Riaz Final Year MBBS Student Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad Pakistan
Sumera Badar Ehsan Assistant Professor, Medical Education Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad Pakistan

DOI: https://doi.org/10.29054/apmc/2020.560

Keywords: Overweight, Doctors, Health promotion, Habits, Lifestyle

Abstract

Objective: To assess the knowledge attitudes and practices of medical students regarding obesity. Study Design: An Observational Descriptive Study. Settings: A pre-validated questionnaire was distributed in a public sector medical college of Faisalabad-Pakistan. Duration: The study was conducted in May 2017 in 4 weeks after getting approval from ethical review committee. Methodology: An observational descriptive study was carried out among students of first and second year of M.B.B.S. Our sample size was 208. After explaining the purpose of this study and taking consent, a pre-validated questionnaire was distributed. Results: Most participants responded well to questions regarding causes and ill effects of obesity and two thirds identified the correct BMI range. Attitude of students was also positive except that 20% believed that obesity is inherited and can’t be reduced. Only one third students preferred going for a walk daily. Conclusion: Despite sound knowledge regarding obesity, students were not practicing a healthy lifestyle. There is a need to bridge the gap between their knowledge and personal habits.