Factores asociados a la malnutrición en los estudiantes de la Carrera de Enfermería de la Universidad de Cuenca en el periodo lectivo marzo – agosto 2023

Abstract

Background: Bad eating habits can lead to risk factors such as overweight/obesity. In general, several studies suggest that overweight and obesity are important problems among university students with a high incidence in nursing students. Objective: To determine the socio- environmental risk factors for malnutrition such as dietary habits, sedentary lifestyle, and sociocultural influence in nursing students in the March – August 2023 school period. Methodology: The methodology was based on a quantitative, descriptive approach. Regarding the sample, it consisted of 199 participants, who were evaluated by calculating the body mass index, following the parameters established by the WHO, a questionnaire on eating patterns and habits associated with obesity and overweight was also applied. Similarly, a sociodemographic data sheet was implemented. Results: Among the results, an average for the age of 21 years stands out, in terms of sex, 70.4% (144) are women and 29.6% (59) are men, of which 78% are single. And 84.9% do not have children. Regarding the nutritional status of the 100 students evaluated, 71.5% have a normal weight (18-24.9), however, 17.74% are at risk for being overweight and 1.16% has obesity. Regarding eating habits, a lack of eating schedules and frequent consumption of ultra-processed foods, snacks and sugary drinks and foods high in salt and fat were observed, with a low level of physical activity. Conclusions: For the majority there is a nutritional status within the parameters of normal weight, however, there is a latent risk of malnutrition due to excess due to bad eating habits.