2629-P: Is Medical Students’ Knowledge of Lifestyle Modifications Associated with Their Body Weight Status?

Introduction and Objective: In Egypt, approximately 74% of males and 70% of females are overweight (BMI ≥ 25). This study assessed medical students’ knowledge and behaviors regarding lifestyle modifications, key strategies for preventing non-communicable diseases (NCDs), according to their weight status. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among fourth-year medical students at Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt. Participants completed a structured survey assessing their knowledge and behaviors regarding lifestyle modifications. Weight and blood pressure were measured, and self-reported health conditions were collected and used for data stratification. Differences between students with a healthy weight and those who are overweight were examined using a t-test or chi-square test with Fisher’s exact adjustments, as appropriate. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: Of 71 students, 42 (60%) had a healthy weight, and 29 (40%) were overweight. The students who were overweight had higher diastolic blood pressure (81.6 vs 76.0 mm/Hg, p=0.045), a greater average number of NCDs (1.76 vs 1.05, p=0.017), and a higher prevalence of insufficient sleep (89.7% vs 58.5%, p=0.003). They were also more likely to believe that NCDs are prevalent in high-income countries (32.0%>10.5%, p=0.034) and to report skepticism regarding evidence supporting lifestyle modifications (0.42>-0.18, p=0.022). Conclusion: These findings highlight gaps in lifestyle-related knowledge and behaviors among medical students who are overweight, and support targeted educational interventions. Qualitative interviews and longitudinal assessments are recommended to inform curriculum development and monitor change over time.