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Lifestyle changes associated with osteopathic medical education
F J Crapse1, P M Hudgins, H H Baker
1West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, Lewisburg 24901.
The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association
|October 1, 1993
Summary
Medical students often experience detrimental lifestyle changes, including poor eating habits, increased caffeine intake, decreased activity, and weight gain, during their first 15 months of education. Early awareness and prevention strategies are crucial for osteopathic medical students.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Student Lifestyle
- Health and Wellness
Background:
- The transition to medical school can significantly impact students' well-being.
- Osteopathic medical students face unique pressures during their training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess detrimental lifestyle changes in osteopathic medical students.
- To identify specific areas of lifestyle alteration during the initial 15 months of education.
Main Methods:
- A written survey was administered to second-year osteopathic medical students.
- The survey assessed changes in eating patterns, caffeine consumption, physical activity, and weight.
- Response rate was 79% (52 out of 66 students).
Main Results:
- 96% of respondents reported at least one detrimental lifestyle change.
- 81% reported changes in two or more of the four surveyed areas.
- Specific changes included altered eating patterns (79%), increased caffeine intake (71%), decreased physical activity (78%), and weight gain (64%).
Conclusions:
- Osteopathic medical education is associated with significant detrimental lifestyle changes.
- Students should be informed about these risks upon entry.
- Preventive measures should be encouraged to mitigate negative health impacts.