A Study of Haemoglobin, Body Mass Index, and Waist-Hip ratio in Ist year MBBS Students in DBVP RMC

Objective: This study aims to investigate the relationships between haemoglobin levels, body mass index (BMI), and waist-hip ratio (WHR) in first-year MBBS students at DBVP RMC. Material & Methods: 200 healthy Ist year MBBS students of Dr. Babasaheb Vikhe Patil, Rural Medical College, Loni were selected for this study. Anthropometric parameters such as age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI) & waist-hip ratio (WHR) were recorded as per standard protocol. Haemoglobin was estimated by Sahli’s Method. All obtained results were tabulated, and each recorded parameter mean and standard deviation (SD) were calculated. To find level of significance change the data was anlayzed by applying Student t- test. The P values less than 0.05 (P<0.05) were considered as statically significant. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to determine the relationship between haemoglobin levels, BMI, and WHR. Regression analysis was used to examine the predictive relationship between the variables Results: The average age between males and females is very similar, indicating that the groups are comparable in terms of age. Males have a slightly higher average BMI than females. These results suggest that there is a significant difference in body composition within the male group (unpaired t- test, P<0.05). Males have a slightly higher average WHR than females, indicating a tendency towards more abdominal fat distribution. No statistically, significant difference in WHR was observed. Males have a significantly higher average Hb concentration than females (unpaired t- test, P<0.05), which is expected due to physiological differences. The correlation between age and haemoglobin as continuous variable between males and females indicated significant effect of age on haemoglobin with a positive correlation. Similarly, correlation between BMI and haemoglobin as continuous variable between males and females indicated significant effect of BMI on haemoglobin with a positive correlation. However no significant correlation between waist hip ratio and haemoglobin was observed. Conclusions: This study provides valuable insights into the anthropometric and haematological profiles of first-year MBBS students. The identified gender-based differences and correlations underscore the importance of targeted health interventions and further research to optimize the well-being of future medical professionals.