Trends of obesity and overweight among foreign students in Tbilisi, Georgia

Abstract

We determined body weight increase among international students in Tbilisi, Georgia. The objective was to assess the
prevalence of overweight and obesity among the students and find factors associated with it. Methods: Height and
weight were measured in all participants and body mass index (BMI) of each individual was calculated. All participants
completed a voluntary and anonymous semi-structured questionnaire which included questions regarding personal data,
lifestyle and eating behaviours. 107 students were males (52.7%) and 80 females (43.7%) in the age range of 18-40
years. Mean age = 21 years. Results: 86% of sample population did not live with their family which affected their eating
habits. 42.3% were overweight/obese, 38% overweight (BMI 25-29.9) and 4.3% were obese (BMI >30). 49.2% had normal weight (BMI 18.5-24.9) while 8.5% were underweight (BMI <18.5). 77% of students did not smoke while 85% did
not use alcohol. 41.2% of the students slept less than 6 hours a day. Stress level was 82.3%. Reporting eating habits, only
20% had breakfast every morning and 64.3% had two to one meal a day. Students had less serving of fruits and vegetables than required. 53.3% had less than 1 liter of water daily. 48% engaged in fast food daily, 46% were having more
than two snacks a day and 34% had sodas either daily or 2-4 times a week. More than 50% of students were not engaging in the required amount of physical activity. Conclusion: The study found a high prevalence of overweight and obesity. Several health risk practices are identified including: physical inactivity, inadequate intake of fruit and vegetables,
skipping meals, inadequate sleep, high stress levels and inadequate water intake. Interventions to prevent overweight and
obesity and promote healthy lifestyle practices among students should be initiated.