Overweight and Obesity Among Vietnamese University Students: Prevalence and Associated Factors

BACKGROUND: Overweight and obesity are emerging public health challenges among young adults in Vietnam, particularly within university settings where lifestyle transitions frequently occur. OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity among university students in Vietnam and identify associated sociodemographic and behavioral factors. METHODS: . Multivariable logistic regression was performed to examine factors independently associated with overweight and obesity. RESULTS: Among 2,000 students, 25.5% were overweight or obese (12.3% overweight, 13.2% obese), with prevalence significantly higher in males than females (35.1% vs. 17.5%, p < 0.001). Regional differences were observed, with underweight more common in Central Vietnam and overweight and obesity most prevalent in the South, p < 0.05. Multivariable analysis showed significant associations between overweight or obesity and male sex (OR = 2.8), ethnic minority status (OR = 1.7), Southern residence (OR = 1.9), high waist to hip ratio (OR = 4.2), and being married (OR = 3.2). Prolonged weight loss dieting was positively associated (OR = 2.9), while sleeping 8 to 10 hours per day was associated with lower odds (OR = 0.6). CONCLUSION: Overweight and obesity affect approximately one in four university students in Vietnam. Targeted prevention and long-term weight management strategies are needed for young adults in academic settings.