HYGIENIC EVALUATION OF LIFESTYLE PATTERNS AND ASSOCIATED HEALTH RISKS AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS

Lifestyle behaviors established during the university years have a substantial influence on long-term health outcomes and future professional effectiveness. Medical students are particularly vulnerable to unhealthy habits because of intensive academic demands, irregular schedules, and persistent psychological stress. The present study was conducted to assess lifestyle-related health risk factors among medical students and to develop hygienic recommendations aimed at improving their health status. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was carried out among 400 medical students aged 18–25 years. The survey included questions on dietary habits, physical activity, sleep duration, tobacco and alcohol use, screen time, and perceived stress. Lifestyle behaviors were evaluated according to the recommendations of the World Health Organization. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics with descriptive statistics, Pearson’s chi-square test, and logistic regression analysis, with statistical significance established at p < 0.05. The results demonstrated a high prevalence of modifiable behavioral risk factors. Regular breakfast skipping was reported by 62.0% of students, 48.0% consumed fast food three or more times per week, and 55.0% did not meet WHO recommendations for physical activity. Inadequate sleep, defined as less than 7 hours per night, was observed in 67.0% of respondents, while 72.0% reported high levels of perceived stress. Current smoking was reported by 12.0% of students, and 8.0% indicated regular alcohol consumption. The findings indicate that medical students experience a substantial burden of lifestyle-related health risk factors, particularly unhealthy dietary habits, insufficient physical activity, inadequate sleep, and elevated stress levels. These results underscore the need for comprehensive hygienic and educational interventions within medical universities to promote healthy behaviors and reduce the risk of future chronic diseases.