Junk Food Eating Habits and Obesity among Medical College Students in Bangalore: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Junk foods are empty calories. An empty calorie lacks in micro-nutrients such as vitamins, minerals or amino acids, and fibre but has high energy. Objectives: To find out the extent of obesity among study subjects, to assess the junk food eating habits and to assess the factors influencing obesity. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 237 medical college students in Bangalore for a period of 4 months. The data was collected using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire by interview technique. Obesity among study subjects was assessed using body mass index (BMI). The results were expressed in terms of descriptive statistics. Odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported. Results: In the present study, extent of Obesity was 20.7%. Ice creams & chocolates were the favourite junk food (47%) and KFC was the favourite junk food outlet (52%). Factor influencing the intake of junk food in majority was taste preferences (80.5%). Obesity was significantly associated with family history of obesity and increased junk food eating. Conclusion: Increasing awareness about the risks of junk food consumption during adolescence is an important step for the prevention oflifestyle diseases like obesity.

Keywords

• Obesity
• Junk food
• Medical students