PATTERN AND DETERMINANTS OF OVERWEIGHT AND OBESITY AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS OF KOLKATA

Introduction: Researchers have shown variable prevalence of overweight & obesity among medical students. Aim: To assess the prevalence & determinants of overweight/obesity among undergraduate medical students. Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out among 278 medical students at Kolkata from March 2015 up to May 2015 by filling a pre designed, pre tested structured questionnaire and doing anthropometric measurements. Results: 66% were between 20-21 years ; 58% were males; 54%  were day scholars; 78 %were  from nuclear family; 49% read  in 2^nd  year;67% belonged to class I (modified BG Prasad scale March 2015);9%  were obese & 19% were overweight as per WHO scale ; 28% & 20% were obese and overweight respectively as per Indian scale;1% male & 9% female had a waist circumference of  more than 102 cm & 88 cm respectively (WHO scale);27%  male & 30% female had waist circumference of more than 90 cm & 80 cm respectively (Indian scale);10% male & 21% female had a waist/hip ratio of more than0.90 & 0.85 respectively. The significant factors were positive family history; large amount of soft drink intake; frequent fast & junk food consumption; fruits taken infrequently; alcohol consumption; longer time spent by means of computer/ watching television; and physical inactivity. Conclusion: There is a definite need to inculcate good habits of healthy eating and regular physical exercise.