Influence of Abdominal Obesity (Waist–Hip ratio) on Memory Consolidation in Adolescent Medical Undergraduates − A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Waist Hip Ratio (WHR), a measure of abdominal obesity is being co-related with memory consolidation based on its relation with stress and sleep. The objective of the present cross-sectional study was to evaluate the association between WHR and memory consolidation in adolescent medical undergraduates. Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in a South Indian medical college. After obtaining ethics clearance, the study was conducted on 42 males and 63 females of 17–19 years of age. WHR was measured according to WHO guidelines using Gulick 2 plus inch tape. Sleep-dependent memory consolidation test was conducted in evening 3:00 pm followed by next morning 9:00 am. WHR between genders was compared using Student t test. The study population was divided into obese and non obese individuals, based on the calculated WHR. Then, the mean memory consolidation test scores were compared using Mann Whitney U test. The correlation between WHR and memory consolidation test scores was evaluated using Pearson’s correlation test. Results & Discussion: The average WHR of males (0.845 ± 0.058) was significantly higher than females (0.778 ± 0.051) (P<0.001). The morning session memory consolidation test scores were higher in the normal group when compared to the substantially increased risk for obesity groups, although not statistically significant. WHR showed significant negative correlation with sleep dependent memory experiment scores. Conclusion: The relationship between WHR and memory consolidation in the present study highlights the need for an awareness to adopt life style modifications which might not only benefit the general health status but also might have an impact on their memory consolidation and academic performance.