CHARACTERISTICS OF EATING BEHAVIORS AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG STUDENTS AT HANOI MEDICAL UNIVERSITY

Abstract

University years are a critical period for shaping lifelong eating habits. Medical students, facing intense academic and psychological pressures, are particularly vulnerable to disordered eating behaviors. Objectives: To describe eating behavior patterns and identify associated factors among students at Hanoi Medical University in 2024–2025. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 490 students using the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ-R18) to assess cognitive restraint (CR), uncontrolled eating (UE), and emotional eating (EE). Multivariable linear regression identified significant predictors. Results: Most participants had normal BMI (63.9%) and relatively healthy eating behaviors. Body image perception, sleep habits, academic pressure, and income were significantly associated with eating behaviors (p < 0.05). Higher CR scores were observed in students with balanced or overweight body perceptions, while frequent late-night habits and higher income were linked to lower CR. Sleep disturbances and body-shape concerns increased UE and EE scores. Conclusions: Eating behaviors among medical students are influenced by psychological, behavioral, and social factors. Interventions should focus on improving sleep quality, stress management, and healthy body image to promote balanced eating patterns.