Health Status and Morbidity Trends among Student Youth: Insights from Southern Kyrgyzstan

Students' health situation significantly influences their academic performance and general well-being, particularly since higher education can lead to major lifestyle changes that could lead to chronic health disorders. This study evaluated students' health using epidemiological, analytical, and statistical research techniques. The results showed a general decrease in health markers over their academic careers; almost half of the students examined had chronic diseases—69% in the main group and 56% in the control group (p > 0.05). The study revealed notable increases in the frequency of gastrointestinal ailments, ophthalmic conditions, and dental cavities. From 239.6 ± 6.0 per 1,000 persons in 2021 to 280.4 ± 8.3 per 1,000 in 2023, primary morbidity rates increased by 17.2% (p < 0.05). Six main nosological categories—that of illnesses of the digestive and respiratory systems, ophthalmic problems, viral and parasitic diseases, and disorders of the ear and mastoid process—also showed increases in morbidity. These results emphasize the great importance of early diagnosis and treatment of chronic illnesses and related risk factors as well as of preventative actions aimed at encouraging good lifestyle choices. Given the alarming health trends, higher education institutions must provide ideal settings that promote student health and slow down the development of chronic diseases.