Keywords: hypertension, BMI, physical activity, dietary habits, students

Aim:

This study, conducted between march and december 2024., aimed to investigate the association between health risk factors and hypertension among students of the University of Zenica. The student period is characterized by an increased risk of developing unhealthy dietary and lifestyle habits, potentially leading to overweight, obesity, and chronic non-communicable diseases.

Method:

The study included 273 students (186 females and 87 males). Anthropometric measurements, body composition analysis using bioimpedance, blood pressure measurement, and questionnaires on dietary and lifestyle habits were employed. Statistical analysis was performed using the χ² test and ANOVA method, with a significance level of p<0.05.

Results:

The prevalence of hypertension among students was 22.3% (n=273), significantly higher in males (39.1%; n=87) compared to females (14.5%; n=186). The majority of participants reported a low level of physical activity, accounting for 64.5% (n=273). Elevated BMI (overweight and obesity) was observed in 37.0% (n=273) of students, with 27.1% classified as overweight and 8.4% as obese. Overweight was more prevalent in males (32.2%; n=87) compared to females (24.7%; n=186).

Conclusions:

The results indicate a significant prevalence of hypertension in the student population, associated with risk factors such as elevated BMI and physical inactivity. No significant association was found between hypertension and habits such as excessive salt use or coffee consumption. These findings emphasize the importance of timely prevention and targeted interventions to promote healthy dietary and lifestyle habits among students. Preventing unhealthy behaviors is essential to reducing the risk of chronic non-communicable diseases.