Abstract:
Background: Perception of body appearance is a crucial factor in young adults’ lives because it is
associated with a decreased quality of life in youth. Overweight/ obese young adults are likely to
underestimate their weight. Eating habits have a vital relationship with the perception of body
appearance. In Sri Lanka, only a few studies have examined the perception of body appearance
among university students.
Objectives: To examine the perceived body appearance and eating habits among undergraduates
in the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences (FAHS), University of Ruhuna (UoR)
Methods: A descriptive cross–sectional study was conducted involving 300 selected
undergraduates who are studying in the FAHS, UoR. A pre-tested self-developed questionnaire
was used to collect data about perception of body appearance and eating habits. Body Mass Index
(BMI) was calculated to assess nutritional status. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25.0.
Results: The majority of participants were in the 23-24-year age group. The majority of
participants were satisfied with their body appearance and only 6% severely concerned about
appearance. Of the participants, 136(45.3%) were dissatisfied with their shape, they wanted to be
thinner or heavier. The majority of the undergraduates 163(54.3%) had unhealthy eating patterns.
Nearly half of the undergraduates (n=154, 51.4%) used to eat snacks more than three times per
week. Apart from meals, 66 (22%) participants only consumed vegetables and fruits daily. Gender
(p=0.028), BMI (p<0.05), and eating habits (p=0.024) were significantly associated with
perception of body appearance.
Conclusions: The majority of participants were concerned about their body appearance and most
of them were dissatisfied with their body appearance. Most of the students had unhealthy eating
habits. Female gender was the most important associated factor with the perception of body
appearance. Appropriate educational programs on body appearance and nutrition ought to be
implemented for undergraduates.
Keywords: Body appearance, Eating habits, Undergraduates, Body weight
