Correlation between Body Mass Index and Metacognitive Beliefs of Medical Undergraduates

Abstract Background: Metacognition is a self-regulatory continuous process of planning, monitoring, and self-evaluation where metacognitive beliefs are the conductor of our thoughts. Maladaptive metacognitive beliefs are the risk factors in developing, maintaining, and worsening of obesity. Due to unhealthy lifestyle and lack of self-regulation, obesity is now a rising concern among young adults worldwide. However, the effect of obesity on metacognitive beliefs is least studied. Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the correlation between body mass index (BMI) and metacognitive beliefs of medical undergraduates. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study included 130 medical undergraduates. Data were collected using an abstraction form. Weight was measured by a weighing machine, and height was measured by a stadiometer. Metacognitive beliefs were assessed by Metacognitive Questionnaire 30 (MCQ 30). Body weight was categorized into underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obese as per the WHO classification. Statistical analysis was done by one-way ANOVA, unpaired t -test, and Pearson’s correlation. Results: The MCQ 30 total score was lowest in underweight and highest in obese, but the variation was not significant. Among the five domains of metacognitive beliefs, none showed significant variation except “positive beliefs about worry” ( P = 0.048). The MCQ 30 score was also compared among males and females, but no significant difference was found. Pearson’s correlation test showed a very weak positive correlation, but the result was not significant. Conclusions: The domain “positive beliefs about worry” was different in different BMI groups with highest in obese. However, the BMI has a very weak positive correlation with overall metacognitive beliefs suggesting some effect of BMI on metacognitive ability.