Prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in medical students of the federal university of goiás

Introduction: The beginning of academic life impacts the lifestyle of medical students, bringing social, psychological, and physical consequences, with emphasis on the development of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF). Objectives: To determine the prevalence and factors associated with CVRF in 1st, 3rd, and 6th-year medical students at the Federal University of Goiás. Method: Cross-sectional observational study. The students performed capillary blood glucose, bioelectrical impedance and underwent a physical examination. Results: 177 students participated in the study, 67.2% male. The mean Body Mass Index (BMI) was 23.42 kg/m2, being 5% obese and 26% overweight. 79.4% had a fat percentage above healthy, and 10.17% had CVRF. The consumption of fruits and vegetables was lower than recommended by 71.76% and 80.22%, respectively. A significant difference was observed in the multivariate statistical analysis between academic periods, demonstrating a worsening progression of health indicators throughout college years. Conclusion: Medical Students have a high percentage of body fat even with a normal BMI, have poor eating habits, and have progressively worsened health indicators throughout their college years. Given this scenario, the university must develop health promotion actions focused on the struggle against CVRF.