A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY ON THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN DIETARY PATTERNS AND ANTHROPOMETRIC MEASURES (BMI AND WAIST CIRCUMFERENCE) AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS OF SHIVAMOGGA

Background: In India, rapid modernization and lifestyle transitions have led to a surge in the consumption of calorie-dense,nutrient-poor processed foods, coupled with a marked decline in the levels of physical activity. Obesity, which was onceknown to be prevalent in developed countries, is on an upward trend in developing countries like India. Materials andMethods: A self-administered questionnaire, which inquired about the eating habits and level of daily physical activity, andwas given to all 503 students who participated in the study. The anthropometric measurements like height, weight, waistcircumference (WC), and hip circumference (HC) were recorded. The participants were grouped in accordance with theirBMI and WC, and the chi-square test was used for statistical analysis. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statisticallysignificant. Results: More than 88% of the students consumed junk food items frequently (at least 3 times a week). 92% ofthe subjects consumed fruits less frequently (less than once a week). Skipping raw vegetables/salads, daily intake of sweetdishes and salty snacks, and regular consumption of soft drinks with outside meals were significantly associated with higherBMI and WC. Participation in sports showed a significant inverse relation with WC. Conclusion: There is a definite needfor spreading awareness about diet and its importance, and frame policies promoting healthier eating and active lifestyle.Policymakers should consider integrating nutrition education and mandatory physical activity programs in educationcurricula to mitigate the growing risk of NCDs