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Background: University students face unique health challenges, including poor diets, stress, and food insecurity, which may increase risks of anaemia and cardiometabolic risk disorders. However, evidence from Ghana remain limited.
Objective: This study examined the influence of stress, food security, physical activity, and dietary patterns on cardiometabolic disorders and anemia among university students in Ghana.
Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted among 306 students from all six colleges at KNUST. Data on stress, dietary patterns, food security and physical activity were collected using structured questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements were taken alongside blood pressure and hemoglobin measurements.
Key findings: The majority of participants were between 15 and 25 years old with females representing 55.6%. The prevalence of anaemia and cardiometabolic risk was 28.8% and 20.9% respectively, with both conditions common among female students. Over 80% of students experienced food insecurity, and stress levels were widespread (47.4%). Although many students were physically active, gender differences in body composition were evident. Two key dietary patterns emerged: one rich in fruits and energy-dense foods, the other based on vegetables and proteins. While statistical associations between variables were not significant, the dietary patterns suggest emerging health risks.
Implications: Anaemia, cardiometabolic risk, food insecurity, and stress were pressing concerns among university students. These findings highlight the need for targeted nutrition, food security, and mental health interventions on campus to safeguard student well-being.
Keywords: Anaemia, cardiometabolic risk, food insecurity, dietary patterns, university students.