Prevalence and associated factors of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension among university students in Jordan

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder with increasing global prevalence, particularly linked to obesity. Obesity, measured by Body Mass Index, significantly heightens the risk of type 2 diabetes, with Arab countries showing some of the highest diabetes rates. Hypertension, another prevalent non-communicable disease, also poses significant cardiovascular risks, with early onset during adolescence and a growing burden worldwide. This research aims to investigate the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity among university students. Another aim is to investigate the factors associated with diabetes and hypertension among university students. The blood pressure analysis shows 66% of participants with normal levels, while 18% have elevated and 16% are hypertensive. Average systolic and diastolic pressures were 118.87 mmHg and 70.79 mmHg, respectively. Blood glucose measurements revealed variability, with fasting levels averaging 87.15 mg/dL and random levels averaging 95.12 mg/dL. Approximately 8% of participants were prediabetic and 5% were diabetic. The body mass index (BMI) values ranged from 16.87 to 45.70, with 59% of participants in the normal range, 25% classified as overweight, and 13% as obese. Cluster analysis reveals that 63% of the students had no cardiometabolic risk condition, 28% had one condition, and 9% had a clustering of more than one condition. Binary logistic regression indicates that each one-unit increase in BMI was associated with an 83% higher likelihood of having high FBS. The results of the chi-square analysis suggest that individuals with obesity may have a substantially higher likelihood of hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The study highlights a concerning prevalence of hypertension and obesity among university students, with 16% classified as hypertensive and 13% as obese. Although the majority of participants maintained normal blood pressure and BMI levels, the elevated rates of hypertension and obesity suggest an increased risk for future cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. • BMI Distribution: A significant proportion of students (59%) had a normal BMI, but 25% were overweight, and 13% were obese, reinforcing the need for targeted health interventions. • Blood Pressure and Glucose Variability: While 66% of participants had normal blood pressure, 18% had elevated levels. Average fasting blood glucose was 87.15 mg/dL, with random levels averaging 95.12 mg/dL. • Prevalence of Hypertension and Obesity : Among university students, 16% were classified as hypertensive, and 13% were obese, indicating a potential risk for future cardiovascular and metabolic disorders