Health Perception, Food Diversity, And Physical Fitness Assessment Among Adolescent School Students of Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan

Adolescence is a critical stage marked by rapid physical, emotional, and behavioral development, where lifelong health habits are often established. This study explores the interrelationship between health perception, dietary diversity, and physical fitness among adolescent students in Rawalakot, AJK, Pakistan—a region with limited prior research. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, data were collected from 300 students aged 12–18 through self-administered questionnaires and physical assessments. Results indicated moderate overall health perception, with females scoring higher than males. Urban students reported greater dietary diversity, while diverse diets and positive health perceptions were linked to improved endurance and muscular strength. Socioeconomic status and parental education emerged as key determinants. Cultural barriers limited female participation in physical activity. The study highlights the need for school-based interventions integrating nutrition, fitness, and mental health education. Findings underscore the importance of culturally sensitive, equitable programs and call for longitudinal research to assess long-term outcomes.