Association between the level of stress and severity of pain, and  factors associated with stress, and perceived knowledge on stress management among university students in Phnom Penh, Cambodia among University Students in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Background: Stress negatively impacts mental and physical health, often leading to anxiety and hypertension. By identifying key factors, we can better understand the challenges faced by university students in Cambodia and develop targeted solutions to support their mental health and well-being. Objectives: This study seeks to determine the prevalence of stress and pain among university students in Phnom Penh, and also investigating associated factors with stress levels, determining stress-pain association, and gathering insights into pain management strategies. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at five universities in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from September to November 2023. A total of 320 students were selected through simple random sampling, and data was collected using a structured questionnaire administered via face-to-face interviews. Descriptive data were analysed using Excel and SPSS. Univariate analysis was conducted to screen for potential factors associated with high stress, using a chi-squared test. The final multiple logistic regression model retained only factors that are significantly associated with stress (P<0.05). Results: Findings revealed that stress levels were significantly higher in female students (63.6%) compared to males (42.7%), and gender was strongly associated with high stress levels (P<0.001). Students who said something negatively to themselves were 3.51 times more likely to experience high stress (95% CI: 2.14-5.75, P<0.001) and students with insufficient sleep had a 2.82 times higher risk of high stress (95% CI: 1.78-4.45, P<0.001). Acute pain was the most prevalence among participants, and we found that all type of pain were associated with high stress (P<0.05). Conclusion: This study demonstrates significant stress levels among university students in Phnom Penh, driven by both internal and external factors. Universities should implement comprehensive support programs to mitigate stress and pain management to improve student well-being. Also, the impact of pain management by self-medication with analgesic.