Anxiety level and its relationship with eating habits and nutritional status in young adults

Anxiety is a global problem that affects approximately 350 million people, presenting with symptoms such as nervousness, fear and changes in appetite. The aim of this study was to determine the level of anxiety and its relationship with eating habits and nutritional status in young adults between 20 and 30 years of age insured at the Cabanillas Health Center. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with a quantitative approach, using the Zung Anxiety Assessment Scale (EAA), consisting of 20 items, to measure anxiety. Eating habits were assessed by means of a 26-item questionnaire covering frequency of consumption. Nutritional status was determined by Body Mass Index (BMI). Data analysis was carried out using Spearman's Rho test. The results showed a significant and positive association between anxiety and nutritional status (RHO = 0.725, p < 0.01). In addition, a significant, inverse and strong association was identified between anxiety levels and eating habits (RHO = -0.771, p < 0.01). In conclusion, anxiety level has a significant relationship with eating habits and nutritional status in young adults aged 20-30 years, according to Spearman's Rho correlation coefficient.