Impact of Obesity on Self-Esteem and Academic Performance among Medical Students in Al-Rayan Colleges, Al-Madinah

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity is a worldwide concern and affects not only physical but also mental health. It is a complex condition that requires an understanding of its biological, psychological, behavioral interactions to develop effective interventions and policies. Objectives: The aim of the study was to explore the frequency of obesity among medical students at Al-Rayan Colleges and investigate its impact on self-esteem and academic performance and to determine any gender differences in these results. Methods: Data were collected via a questionnaire distributed to all medical students at Al-Rayan Colleges which consisted of questions assessing body mass index (BMI), academic performance, and self-esteem using the Rosenberg self-esteem scale (SES). Results: 250 medical students (104 males and 146 females) participated in this study, with a response rate of 72.9%. The results showed that the frequency of overweight and obesity was 23.1%, 16.3% in males and 24.7%, 11.6% in females. A significant negative correlation between obesity and self-esteem was found in females (r = −0.219, p = 0.014). No correlation was found between obesity and academic performance. BMI was a predictor factor for self-esteem, especially in females. Conclusions: Obesity is a persistent problem in medical students and negatively affects self-esteem, especially in females.