Prevalence of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases among medical university students

Abstract

An online survey of students of higher educational institutions was conducted to study the spread of smoking, obesity, physical inactivity. A comparison was made between students of medical and non-medical universities. It was revealed that 21% of physicians smoke, 47% of non– medical students. Among medical university students, 18% were overweight, and 75% were irrational eating with fast food consumption. Irrational nutrition (insufficient or excessive nutrition) was also common among students. The number of students engaged in sports sections or having a subscription to fitness clubs, respectively, was 11% and 23%. The percentage of students with low physical activity in medical and non-medical universities did not have a statistically significant difference and was less than 20%. The most popular classes that evoked positive emotions among students were sports games: volleyball, basketball, badminton. The girls positively assessed gymnastics classes. Among the factors influencing motivation to study in sports sections, the possibility of improving sports skills and participation in competitions was indicated. Students expressed satisfaction with classes in health groups, the program of which took into account the individual characteristics and capabilities of the individual. Physical inactivity and poor nutrition are related behaviors that affect health and well – being, as well as maintaining a healthy weight. The results of the study showed the need for comprehensive measures to increase the motivation of medical university students to a healthy lifestyle.