Body Weight and Its Association With Weight Perception, Eating Problems and Physical Activity in University Students

Aim: The aim was to explore the relationship between body mass index and weight perception, eating problems and physical activity in university students.Material and Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out amongst undergraduate students n= 491 from a state university. The Eating Attitudes Test, International Physical Activity Questionnaire and a demographic information form were utilized for data collection. The descriptive statistics, independent sample t-test, one-way ANOVA test and chi-square test were adjusted for data analysis. Results: 21% of the students were overweight. Weight perception, weight control behaviours, life satisfaction and eating attitudes differed among underweight, normal-weight, and overweight students p < 0.05 . Conclusion: The overweight students were at an increased risk of weight misperception, weight loss efforts, life dissatisfaction and eating problems. Prevention efforts should focus on improving eating patterns, physical activity and mental health among students