Objective: To identify the prevalence and factors related to obesity and fast food consumption among university students.
Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted at Mutah University, Al-Karak governorate in southern Jordan, from January to April, 2019, and comprised students recruited from different faculties. Data was collected using a structured, validated questionnaire. Height and weight were measured for body mass index calculation. Data was analysed using SPSS 23.
Results: Of the 503 students, 278(55.3%) were females. The overall mean age of the sample was 21.62±2.22 years (range: 19-39 years). Fast food consumption was ≥2 times/week for 299(59.4%) students. The prevalence was significantly higher among students spending ≥21 Jordanian dinar per week (p=0.020) and those who were not performing physical exercise (p=0.025). Significant correlations were found between fast food consumption and fried potato (p<0.001), processed meat products (p<0.001), coffee (p=0.006) and candies (p=0.039). No significant relation was found between fast food consumption and body mass index, religion, gender, field of study or living away from family (p>0.05). The most common reason for consumption was shortage of time 115(38.5%); lunch time was the most preferred time 210(70.2%); 97(32.4%) students were willing to read the nutrient information; and 211(70.5%) were interested in choosing healthy meals.
Conclusions: The prevalence of fast food consumption among university students was found to be high.
Keywords: Fast food, Physical exercise, University students, Body mass index, Cross-sectional study..