“Stress: The silent killer of future healers”: Assessment of its impact on their health and academic performance: A cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Context: Stress among medical students is a growing concern with far-reaching implications on mental, physical health, and academic performance, along with low self-esteem and poor quality of life. Aims: The present research aimed to assess the prevalence of stress, among medical college students, identify its major determinants, and evaluate its impact on health as well as academics. Settings and Design: The study was a cross-sectional study conducted among medical graduates from a tertiary care teaching institute in central India from June 2022 to May 2024. Methods and Material: The study included 388 medical students. Data regarding stress determinants, coping mechanisms and its effects on health and academics was assessed. Perceived stress scale and Medical Students Stress Questionnaire were used. Statistical Analysis: The data were expressed as percentages, means and standard deviations. Student’s t -test (unpaired) was used to compare groups. Chi-square tests were used for analysis of nonparametric data. A P value of < 0.05 was statistically significant. Results: Stress was reported by 291 (75.0%) of the participants. There were 366 (94.3%) participants, who mentioned that stress affected their health. Academic stress was seen in 181 (46.8%) of the students, followed by stress due to overuse of digital platforms among 165 (22.98%). Conclusions: This study found that 75% of medical students experienced stress, mainly due to the academic pressure, digital overuse, and peer pressure. Stress significantly affected their health and academic performance. The findings highlight the need for targeted stress management programs, stronger mentorship, and greater mental health support within medical institutions.