Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of the study was to evaluate dietary habits, health-related lifestyle, and anthropometric characteristics among graduate optometry students Method: A prospective cross-sectional study was performed with the first-year Optometry students entering the classes of 2015 and 2016. Height, weight, and blood pressure were measured at the beginning of August in the fall and the end of May in the spring semester for three consecutive years. Self-reported questionnaires about health-related lifestyles, nutritional habits, and emotional well-being were administered. Results: A total of 116 graduate students with an average age of 25.3 ± 3.3 years participated in the study. Our results revealed increased body mass index, alcohol consumption, smoking, and take-out meals. Their dietary habits of reduced frequency of meals per day, omitting breakfast, snacking, and increasing intake of high-fat products were found. The participants also reported increased symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Discussion: This study provides valuable information to post-secondary academic institutions regarding graduate students' overall health and well-being. It demonstrates the importance of developing strategies to promote a healthy lifestyle among future healthcare professionals
Recommended Citation
Rodriguez, Neisha M and Gil, Karen
(2023)
"Eating Habits, Health Status, and Emotional Well-being Among an Optometry Student Population,"
Health Professions Education: Vol. 9:
Iss.
3, Article 3.
Available at:
https://hpe.researchcommons.org/journal/vol9/iss3/3
