Prevalence and Risk Factors of Eating Disorders among Students in Guntur, South India: A Cross- Sectional Study

Abstract

Back ground Given the limited research on eating disorders (EDs), which are marked by disordered eating habits affecting mental and social well-being, there is a pressing need for more studies, especially amongst the Indian university student populations. This study aims to bridge this research gap by estimating the prevalence of eating disorders and assessing the associated risk factors among students in Guntur, South India, an area currently underrepresented in existing literature. Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of eating disorders among students, To assess the associated risk factors for the eating disorders Methods and Material: A cross-sectional study was carried out involving 300 students from various colleges, selected through convenience sampling method. Measurements of their height and weight were taken. The study utilized four primary questionnaires distributed to the participants: Demographic Information, Eating Attitudes Test (EAT26), Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ34), and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). The gathered data were compiled and analysed using the SPSS software version 21.0. Results: The percentage of students who had high risk for eating disorder was 23.3% (70). High risk for eating disorder was associated with severe body shape concerns (p<0.01). Total students with body shape concern were 165 (55%) with 50 (16.6%) students exhibiting high risk for eating disorder. 28 (9%) Students exhibited high perceived stress levels of which 12 (4%) students exhibited high risk for eating disorder. Other risk factors such as peer pressure 174 (58%), excessive exercise 25 (8.3%) and behavioural symptoms 177 (59%) were also noted among students. Conclusions: A substantial number of university students face the risk of eating disorders, often influenced by worries about body image. These eating disorders were also associated with behavioural manifestations and difficulty among friends.