Modifiable risk factors for non-communicable chronic diseases among Medicine students

Introduction: Non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs) represent a global concern, being one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. The increase in modifiable risk factors, such as obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet, and insufficient physical activity, has significantly contributed to this scenario. This is a concern among medical students. Objective: To investigate modifiable risk factors associated with the development of NCDs in medical students. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted at a higher education institution in southeastern Minas Gerais, involving 256 students who were interviewed through a questionnaire covering sociodemographic, anthropometric, health, and lifestyle aspects. Results: The mean age was 24.6 years, with 64.8% being female. Regarding risk factors, 40.2% had a body mass index (BMI) above the recommended range, with higher prevalence among men. Insufficient physical activity was observed in 37.9%, while smoking was low (15.2%), and alcohol consumption was high (73.4%). Inadequate food consumption was identified in 75% of the sample for beans, 65.6% for vegetables, 80.5% for fruits, 36.5% for meat, 10.2% for sodas and artificial juices, 17.6% for sweets, and 2.7% replaced meals with snacks. Conclusion: This study highlights risk factors among medical students, including diagnoses of NCDs and overweight/obesity, emphasizing the need for preventive strategies. The incidence of smoking, alcohol consumption, and unfavorable dietary habits, especially among men, reinforces the importance of interventions adapted to the academic context, such as antismoking and nutritional education programs.