Overweight and obesity among Vietnamese university students: prevalence and associated factors

Overweight and obesity are emerging public health challenges among young adults in Vietnam, particularly within university settings where lifestyle transitions frequently occur. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity among university students in Vietnam and identify associated socio-demographic and behavioural factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 2000 students from ten universities across Northern, Central and Southern Vietnam. Anthropometric measurements were collected using standardised procedures. Overweight and obesity were diagnosed according to the WHO recommendations for Asian populations, with a cut-off of BMI ≥ 23 kg/m². Multivariable logistic regression was performed to examine factors independently associated with overweight and obesity. Results: Among 2000 students, 25·5 % were overweight or obese (12·3 % overweight and 13·2 % obese), with prevalence significantly higher in males than females (35·1 % v. 17·5 %, P < 0·001). Regional differences were observed, with underweight more common in Central Vietnam and overweight and obesity most prevalent in the South, P < 0·05. Multivariable analysis showed significant associations between overweight or obesity and male sex (OR = 2·8), ethnic minority status (OR = 1·7), Southern residence (OR = 1·9), high waist:hip ratio (OR = 4·2) and being married (OR = 3·2). Prolonged weight loss dieting was positively associated (OR = 2·9), while sleeping 8-10 h per day was associated with lower odds (OR = 0·6). Conclusion: Overweight and obesity affect approximately one in four university students in Vietnam. Targeted prevention and long-term weight management strategies are needed for young adults in academic settings.