Nutritional Status and Blood Pressure Levels of Makerere University Students aged 19 to 25 years
Abstract
The double burden of malnutrition is an arising issue for developing countries. Furthermore,
the burden of non-communicable diseases is developing among the young population. This
study assessed the nutritional status and blood pressure of Makerere University students aged
19-25 years. Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist Circumference (WC), Waist to Hip Ratio (WHR),
and Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) were collected, and blood pressure readings of
88 university students were measured. Results showed that the mean age of the students was
22.13 years. Of the participants, 18% had hypertension while 44% had prehypertension. A
higher proportion of male students had hypertension (30%) and prehypertension (49%). The
proportion of students with overweight and obesity was 16% and 5%, respectively. BMI
showed that more females (24%) were overweight and (10%) obese. WHR and WC results
indicated that 20% and 15% of the students had abdominal obesity, respectively. The BMI and
MUAC results revealed that 3% and 1% of the students were underweight respectively. The
findings of this study revealed a concerning prevalence of prehypertension and hypertension
as well as overnutrition among University students. Therefore, increased awareness, early
diagnosis, and treatment are essential.