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Chronic Disease Prevalence and Modifiable Risk Factors Among Undergraduate Students at Ha'il University: A
Collins Otieno Asweto1, Sehar-Un-Nisa Hassan2, Mohamed Ali Alzain2,3
1Department of Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Embu, Embu, Kenya.
Risk Management and Healthcare Policy
|May 27, 2026
Summary
Chronic diseases affect 16.2% of Saudi university students, with diabetes being most common. Younger, female, stressed students with unhealthy lifestyles face higher risks, necessitating targeted health interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Health Policy
Background:
- Rising chronic disease rates in Saudi youth demand early prevention strategies.
- A public health approach is crucial for understanding influences on youth chronic conditions.
- This study addresses the need for youth-centered health policies and wellbeing initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate risk and protective factors for chronic disease among university students.
- Analyze demographic, academic, and lifestyle influences on chronic disease development.
- Inform evidence-based, youth-centered health policies and long-term wellbeing strategies.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional survey of 10,775 undergraduate students at the University of Ha'il.
- Descriptive analyses of demographics, academic status, health, and lifestyles.
- Multiple logistic regression to identify significant predictors of chronic disease.
Main Results:
- Overall chronic disease prevalence was 16.2%, with diabetes (6.8%) and migraines (5.4%) most common.
- Younger, female, and married students, along with those with lower GPAs and higher stress, showed increased odds.
- Unhealthy lifestyles significantly elevated chronic disease risk (AOR = 2.60).
Conclusions:
- The 16.2% prevalence of chronic diseases in university students is a significant public health concern.
- Demographic and academic factors, compounded by modifiable lifestyle behaviors, increase chronic disease risk.
- Culturally grounded interventions are essential for prioritizing student health and wellbeing.
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