Chronic Stress and Its Association with Elevated Blood Pressure and Lifestyle Habits among Medical Students

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is increasingly reported among young adults, particularly medical students exposed to chronic academic stress and unhealthy lifestyle habits, which may increase long-term cardiovascular risk. AIM: The aim is to assess the association between perceived stress, lifestyle factors, and blood pressure among undergraduate medical students aged 18-26 years. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 medical students in Central India. Stress levels were assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale-10, and lifestyle habits were evaluated using a Food Frequency Questionnaire and structured assessment. Blood pressure was measured using a mercury sphygmomanometer in accordance with standard guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed using OpenEpi, with odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals calculated. RESULTS: The mean age was 21.9 ± 1.8 years. Elevated blood pressure was observed in 32.4% of students. High stress was strongly associated with elevated blood pressure (OR = 3.95). Additional predictors included low physical activity, smoking, short sleep duration, male gender, and unhealthy dietary habits. CONCLUSIONS: Stress and adverse lifestyle behaviors are significantly associated with elevated blood pressure among medical students. Early interventions targeting stress management and healthy living are essential.