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

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.