Anthropometric profile, hypertension, and lifestyle risk factors: A cross-sectional study among Kurdish medical students

BACKGROUND: Medical students, as future healthcare professionals, should model healthy lifestyle behaviors. However, their own practices and health profiles often fall short of optimal standards. This study assessed anthropometric measures, lifestyle habits, and clinical risk factors for non-communicable diseases among Kurdish medical students. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 280 undergraduate medical students (80 males, 200 females) aged 18–24 years at Hawler Medical University. Data were collected using a two-part approach: (1) direct clinical assessments for anthropometrics (height, weight), blood pressure (BP), and random blood glucose (RBG); and (2) a pre-validated, structured questionnaire to document diet, physical activity, smoking, and sleep patterns. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated and categorized. Gender-based differences and correlations were analyzed. RESULTS: A normal BMI was observed in 59.3% of students; however, 22.1% were overweight, 8.6% obese, and 10% underweight. Hypertension prevalence was high (56.4%), while most participants had normal RBG (92.9%). Male students had significantly higher BMI, SBP, DBP, and less healthy dietary habits compared to females ( P < 0.001). Positive correlations were found between BMI and both Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) ( r = 0.30) and Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) ( r = 0.22), but not with Random Blood Glucose (RBG). High BMI was also associated with hypertension and poor sleep. CONCLUSION: Despite most students having a normal BMI, a substantial proportion exhibited elevated blood pressure, overweight, and obesity, underscoring the need for targeted lifestyle interventions and health promotion within medical education.