Health risk behaviors among medical and nursing students of Lumbini Medical College, Nepal: A cross-sectional study

Background and aims: Healthcare students are expected to lead healthy lives yet they may engage in health risk behaviors (HRBs) like physical inactivity, poor diet, and substance use. These behaviors can have negative consequences for both the individual's health and well-being, as well as their ability to perform their future roles as healthcare providers. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of HRBs and associated factors among medical and nursing students at Lumbini Medical College, Nepal.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 412 undergraduate healthcare students using a self-administered questionnaire. HRBs across various domains were assessed. Validated scales screened for anxiety and depression. Regression analyses determined associations between mental health and HRBs.

Results: Low physical activity was prevalent, with only 10.7% exercising ≥5 times/week. Inadequate fruit/vegetable intake (1-2 servings/day) was reported by 79.9% students. Short sleep duration (5-6 h) on weeknights (51.2%) was common. More than three quarter (76.5%) of students met the screening cutoff score for HRBs. The study highlighted that students with addiction, depression and anxiety are more likely to exhibit HRBs (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: Multiple HRBs were highly prevalent among the students. A considerable proportion demonstrated a clustering of risky lifestyle factors, which were linked to poor mental health. Interventions should address academic burden, promote positive health behaviors, and target mental well-being in this vulnerable group.