Abstract:
Background: Obesity is a major public health concern globally and increasingly
affects university students due to sedentary behavior and poor lifestyle choices. In
Bangladesh, the rising trend of obesity among undergraduates is linked to reduced
physical activity, academic stress, and dietary changes associated with urbanization
and campus life. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of
obesity and its association with physical activity among undergraduate students at
Bangladesh Health Professions Institute (BHPI). Specific objectives included
evaluating socio-demographic characteristics, measuring obesity levels through BMI,
assessing physical activity levels, and analyzing the correlation between obesity and
physical activity. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 163
undergraduate students aged 18–25 at BHPI. Data were collected via structured face-
to-face interviews using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)
and anthropometric measurements to calculate BMI. Data were analyzed using SPSS
v27.0, and associations were tested using the Fisher-Freeman-Halton Exact Test.
Results: Among 163 participants, 68.1% had normal BMI, 19.0% were pre-obese,
3.1% were obese (Class I), and 9.8% were underweight. Most students (82.2%)
reported moderate physical activity, 17.8% had low activity, and none reported high
levels. A statistically significant association (p < 0.001) was found between BMI and
physical activity levels. Discussion: The findings highlight a moderate level of
physical activity among most students, yet none reached high-intensity activity levels.
Despite a majority having normal BMI, the presence of obesity and its link to physical
inactivity signals a need for targeted interventions. Compared to studies in other
regions, BHPI students exhibited better BMI outcomes but lower physical activity
intensity. These findings suggest the importance of structured health programs at
universities to promote active lifestyles. Future research should focus on longitudinal
and qualitative methods to explore behavioral drivers and intervention outcomes
across broader student populations.
Keywords: Obesity, Physical Activity, Undergraduate, Bangladesh, BMI
Description:
This dissertation is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy, Bangladesh Health Professions Institute, Faculty of Medicine, the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh.
