Prevalence of Poor Sleep Quality and its Association with Body Mass Index among Medical Students in Puducherry

Increase in the incidence of obesity globally is leading to several public health concerns. Poor sleep quality among obese and overweight individuals was reported by several large population studies. Altered sleep pattern was reported among medical students due to several factors such as high academic demands, social obligations, mobile usage and watching television. Studies assessing the sleep quality and its association with body mass index were not studied in the recent times. In this study we intend to assess the prevalence of poor sleep quality and its association with BMI among medical students in Puducherry.

Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index. 125 students consented and participated in the study by submitting the questionnaire and volunteering for anthropometric measurements. PSQI questionnaire was analyzed and a total score of 5 or more was considered as poor sleep quality. BMI was calculated by Quetelet's index and Body fat percentage was calculated from the skinfold thickness measured.

52% of the students were found to have poor sleep quality. There were no significant differences in mean PSQI values between male and female students. 43% of the students were found to have high BMI. There was no association between PSQI and BMI among the medical students.

There is a high prevalence of poor sleep quality among the medical students. Prevalence of high BMI is also seen in the study population indicating a risk for the development of obesity. Poor sleep quality and hence sleep deprivation may lead to poor academic performance.