Prevalence of obesity and its association with physical activity among undergraduate students in BHPI: a cross-sectional study

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