ÍNDICE DE MASA CORPORAL Y RIESGO MÓRBIDO EN ESTUDIANTES UNIVERSITARIOS

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.0112419074

• Palavras-chave: IMC, riesgo mórbido, ejercicio físico, estudiantes universitarios.

• Keywords: BMI, morbid risk, physical exercise, university students.

• Abstract: Overweight and obesity are growing public health concerns, linked to an increase in chronic noncommunicable diseases. This study developed at Universidad Estatal Península de Santa Elena seeks to estimate the prevalence of BMI in relation to morbid risk among undergraduate students during the 2024-1 academic term. Using a non-experimental, cross-sectional design, the present study has a descriptive scope. Therefore, the BMI of 835 students was estimated using standardized anthropometric protocols. The results indicate an average BMI of 24.7 ± 4.4, placing most of the students in the “normal weight” category according to the classification of the Spanish Society for the Study of Obesity. This category corresponds to a “very low” morbid risk for diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, mainly linked to students who physical exercise the most per week. In conclusion, although most students maintain a healthy BMI, groups with potential risks were identified. Therefore, the present study points out the importance of promoting physical exercise in the university setting and generating healthy lifestyles.