Prevalence and Factors Associated with Sufficient Physical Activity Among Medical Students in Khon Kaen University

Abstract

Background: Sufficient physical activity is known to be for both physical and mental health. Medical students, who will one in the future be healthcare providers, need to take care of their health. Our study was conducted in order to determine whether or not medical students are acquire enough physical activities and their general state of fitness.

Objective : To study the prevalence and factors associated with sufficient physical activities among medical students at Khon Kaen University.

Design : Descriptive study was conducted.

Setting: Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University.

Population and Sampling : Stratified random sampling of 341 of 1,134 medical students entering Khon Kaen University, between January 16-19, 2007.

Tools and Analysis : Self-administered questionnaire.  Data analysis was accomplished by using median, IQR, frequencies, percent, Pearson Chi-square, Multiple Logistic regression, Odds ratio and 95% CI.

Results : 332 out of 341 medical students (97.4%) responded to the questionnaire (53.8% females; 46.2% males). A minority (26.8%) reported themsell having a sufficient physical activity [95%CI: 22.2, 32.0], 30.2% vs. 19% for preclinical [95%CI: 24.4, 36.6] vs. clinical medical students (95%CI: 12.1, 28.3), respectively. The statistically significant factors associated with sufficient physical activity were:  (1) having an enjoyable sports (P=0.008) and (2) having a spare time (P=0.021)

Conclusion : The prevalence of sufficient physical activity among medical students at Khon Kaen University was 26.8% [95%CI: 22.2, 32.0] and the significantly associated factors were having an enjoyable sports and a spare time.