Influence of the academic environment on the prevalence of eating disorders among Dentistry students
Keywords:
AMBIENTE DE INSTITUCIONES DE SALUD; CONDUCTA ALIMENTARIA; ESTUDIANTES DE ODONTOLOGÍA; TRASTORNOS DE ALIMENTACIÓN Y DE LA INGESTIÓN DE ALIMENTOS.; HEALTH FACILITY ENVIRONMENT; FEEDING BEHAVIOR; STUDENTS, DENTAL; FEEDING AND EATING DISORDERS.; AMBIENTE DE INSTITUIÇÕES DE SAÚDE; COMPORTAMENTO ALIMENTAR; ESTUDANTES DE ODONTOLOGIA; TRANSTORNOS DA ALIMENTAÇÃO E DA INGESTÃO DE ALIMENTOS.Abstract
Introduction: eating disorders constitute a multifactorial problem that affects both physical and mental health, with university students being a vulnerable group due to academic stress.
Objective: to evaluate the prevalence and associated factors of eating disorders among third-semester dentistry students at the Universidad Regional Autónoma de los Andes.
Methods: a mixed, descriptive, and cross-sectional study was conducted, following Sampieri’s classification. The population included 84 students selected through census sampling. Validated questionnaires SCOFF and EAT-26 were applied, ensuring informed consent and confidentiality. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, considering bioethical principles of respect and beneficence.
Results: SCOFF test identified 38 % of students with a positive risk of eating disorders, mainly associated with overweight perception and loss of control over food intake. The EAT-26 showed 12 % of cases with scores suggestive of risk, highlighting subdomains related to bulimia, restrictive dieting, and oral control. Most participants belonged to the middle class (86 %) and lived with both parents (76 %). Limited interest in healthy habits and a predominance of low-nutrition food options in the university environment were observed.
Conclusions: the findings reveal a significant prevalence of risk for eating disorders among dentistry students, linked to academic stress and the lack of healthy options. The need to implement nutritional education programs and prevention strategies in the university setting is emphasized, aiming to reduce student vulnerability and promote balanced lifestyles.
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