Assessment of Nutritional Status and Anaemia among First Year Medical Students of SIMS, Shivamogga

The medical students may also suffer from anaemia because of busy schedule in college and extra-curricular activities. Their living in the hostel or as day scholars away from parents and families was reflected upon their diet habits and had a significant reflection upon the prevalence of anaemia.

To determine haemoglobin status and body mass index (BMI) in adolescents and to study the correlation between them.

The present study was conducted on 100 Ist year MBBS students studying at Shimoga Institute of Medical Sciences, Shivamogga (Karnataka) belonging to both sex during 2014–15. They were studied for anthropometric parameters using standard protocol. BMI of </=18.5 kg/m2 was used to define undernutrition status. Haemoglobin level was estimated. Grading of Anaemia according to WHO guidelines was done. Peripheral smears were studied. Statistical analysis were carried out using proportions, means, standard deviations and SPSS software.

Anaemia prevalence was 32% among medical students. Out of total 62 male students, 15(24.19%) students were found anaemic and out of 38 female students, 17(44.73%) were found anaemic. Out of 62 male students, 17 were underweight and 6 were overweight. Out of 38 females, 10 were underweight and 6 were overweight. There was negative correlation between BMI and Hb levels.

In this study, girl students showed poor nutritional profile and higher prevalence of anemia as compared to the boys. Nutritional anaemia was found to be prevalent even in medical students who were literate and had access to the nutritive diet in a good, healthy environment. The need for regular blood tests, especially haemoglobin levels, is emphasized and nutrition component needs to be included in the college curriculum.