Noncommunicable disease risk factors: A study of diet, physical activity, and body mass index among African students in North India

Background: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases are on the rise globally, particularly among young adults. International students, including Africans in India, may adopt unhealthy dietary patterns and sedentary behaviors in a new cultural and academic environment, increasing their risk of developing NCDs. Despite this, little is known about the lifestyle behaviors and health awareness of African students in Indian universities. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted among African tertiary-level students studying in North India. A sample of 350 students was selected using stratified random sampling from five universities. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire assessing dietary habits, physical activity levels (based on the World Health Organization recommendations), alcohol and tobacco use, family history of NCDs, and awareness of NCD risks. Anthropometric measurements (height and weight) were used to calculate body mass index (BMI). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, with descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-square and logistic regression) applied at a 95% confidence level. Results: Preliminary findings show that 61.2% of participants consumed fewer than three servings of fruits/vegetables per day, and 48.6% reported low physical activity. Over 30% had a BMI in the overweight or obese range. Alcohol and tobacco use were reported by 27.4% and 11.6% of students, respectively. Awareness of NCDs was moderate (56.1%), but only 19.3% had ever checked their blood pressure or blood sugar levels in India. BMI and low physical activity were significantly associated with self-reported family history of diabetes or hypertension (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The study highlights concerning lifestyle patterns among African students in North India that may increase their future risk of NCDs. Proactive NCD prevention policies must include this population to mitigate long-term public health consequences.