"The Growing Burden: Overweight and Obesity Prevalence and Risk Factors Among Medical College Students in Mysuru: A Cross-sectional Study"

Background: The transition from adolescence to adulthood is often accompanied by significant lifestyle changes, including changes in dietary habits, physical activity levels, and stress, which can contribute to unhealthy weight gain. In India, the prevalence of overweight and obesity among youth has shown an upward trend, raising concerns about early onset of non-communicable diseases. This study aims to assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity among degree college students in Mysuru and to identify the associated socio-demographic and lifestyle factors contributing to these conditions. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted over three months, from January to March 2025, among students of a medical college in Mysuru. A total of 230 medical college students participated in the study, selected through a convenient sampling technique. Data were collected using a pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire that included information on socio-demographic characteristics, dietary habits, physical activity, and other lifestyle factors. Anthropometric measurements such as height and weight were recorded to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI). Data were analysed to assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity and to explore their association with various risk factors. Results: Among the 230 study participants, 113 (49.2%) were males and 117(50.8%) were females. 132 (57.4%) were found to be overweight or obese. Frequent fast-food consumption was significantly associated with overweight and obesity (73.5%, p = 0.046), while other factors such as gender, family history, exercise, and screen time showed no statistically significant associations. Conclusion: Dietary behaviour, particularly fast-food intake, emerged as a key modifiable risk factor for overweight and obesity among medical students, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to promote healthier eating habits in this population. Keywords: Overweight, Obesity, Medical college students, Risk factors