Youth Risk Behaviour among Medical Students in a Medical College in Bengaluru

Abstract

Risk taking behaviour is common amongst youth, who comprise of individuals between 15-24 years. They are
in the formative stage of life and are vulnerable to developing habits that could be precursors to development of
communicable and non communicable diseases. This study was undertaken to assess the risk taking behaviour
among first year medical students as they will be the role models to the community. A cross-sectional study, using a
semi-structured questionnaire, was conducted among first year medical students in RajaRajeswari Medical College
over a one month period in 2015. The study revealed that most students had risk taking behaviour, especially with
regard to unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity. There was a statistically significant association between
consumption of junk food and obesity and between BMI and action taken to alter weight. A small percentage of
students displayed risk taking behaviour contributing to unintentional injuries, substance abuse and physical
inactivity. Behaviour change communication on health risk behaviours and life skills training among the future
doctors will go a long way in bringing a change in the community as they will be the role models.