Abstract Background: Fast food consumption is becoming increasingly common among young adults, including medical students, despite their awareness of its negative health effects. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of fast-food intake, identify contributing factors, and examine its association with obesity among undergraduate medical students. Materials and Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted with 400 undergraduate students at Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Government Medical College and Hospital, Baramati, Pune, Maharashtra, India. Data were collected using a validated, self-administered online questionnaire that covered sociodemographic details, dietary habits, reasons for consuming fast food, and physical activity. Self-reported height and weight were used to calculate the body mass index, and obesity was classified according to World Health Organization standards. Ethical clearance was obtained, and informed digital consent was secured from all participants. Results: Among the 400 students surveyed, 92.5% reported regularly consuming fast food. The overall prevalence of obesity was 19.75%. Significant associations were found between obesity and gender ( P = 0.0001), academic year ( P = 0.001), and fast-food consumption ( P = 0.01). Students who consumed fast food had an eightfold increased risk of obesity. No significant associations were observed with age, place of residence, or dietary preference. Conclusion: Despite being aware of its health risks, fast food consumption remains widespread among medical students and is strongly associated with obesity. These findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted nutritional education, student wellness programs, and institutional dietary interventions to address this rising health issue.
Lohare et al. (Tue,) studied this question.