Trend of physical activity level among medical students of B.J. Medical College, Ahmedabad
Vishwas Gadhvi, Akash Pate, Minal Gadhvi
Introduction: Non communicable diseases (NCD) will account for 73% of deaths and 60% of the global disease burden by 2020. Physical activity plays a major role in the prevention of these non-communicable diseases. The stress involved in meeting responsibilities of becoming a physician may adversely affect the exercise habits of students.
rnAims and Objectives: The current study aimed to study the trend of physical activity level among undergraduate medical students.
Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted among 200 undergraduate medical students. Quota sampling method was used to identify 50 students from each of the four odd semesters. A pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. Epi-Info 7 was used for data entry and statistical analysis and results are expressed as percentages and proportions.
Observations & Discussion: In our study, 55% were 20 to 22 years old. Over half of the students were utilizing the sports facilities provided by the university in the campus. Majority of students 138 (69%) had normal body mass index (BMI), (43) 21% were overweight. Of the 65% who were currently exercising, the practice of physical activity was more among boys as compared to girls (68% v/s 32%). Lack of time (22 %), laziness (57 %), and exhaustion from academic activities (7 %) were identified as important hindering factors among medical students who did not exercise.
Conclusions: A longitudinal study to follow-up student behavior throughout their academic life is needed to identify the factors promoting physical activity among students
Recommendations: Students are encouraged to use bicycle on campus, involve in sports activity, yoga and exercise sessions.
Vishwas Gadhvi, Akash Pate, Minal Gadhvi. Trend of physical activity level among medical students of B.J. Medical College, Ahmedabad. International Journal of Medical and Health Research, Volume 1, Issue 4, 2015, Pages 139-140