The Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Disorders and Lifestyle Habits in Medical Students of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms among medical students at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences (MUMS) and their association with lifestyle factors. 

METHODS:

Participants completed questionnaires evaluating gastrointestinal symptoms using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS), physical activity using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ ), quality of life using 36-item short form health survey (SF-36), and dietary habits. Data were collected, categorized, and analyzed statistically. 

RESULTS:

Three hundred ninety-eight students were selected for analysis. Most participants had no complaints of reflux (62.8%), constipation (46%), or diarrhea (64.3%), or mild symptoms of abdominal pain (64.8%) and indigestion (85.9%). A total of 96.7% had mild or no symptoms according to GSRS. Male participants had higher reflux scores, while female participants reported more abdominal pain (P<0.01). No significant correlation was found between GSRS scores and lifestyle factors. Gastrointestinal symptoms were linked to reduced quality of life and mental/physical functioning (P<0.05, P<0.01). A negative correlation existed between SF-36 physical activity scores and participant sex (P<0.05). 

CONCLUSION:

The study found a low prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms among MUMS students. Digestive symptoms may affect quality of life physically and psychologically, but the severity of the symptoms may not be the main determinant of these effects.