Student profile and quality of life: considerations from an investigation into the medicine and nursing courses at two universities in Minas Gerais

Abstract

Entering academic life is often accompanied by new and increased responsibilities, activities, and demands. Especially in courses focused on healthcare, such as Medicine and Nursing, the workload is typically extensive, and the pressure of dealing with human lives can make this phase challenging for many students. Consequently, the result is often a shift in the lifestyle of these individuals, who, finding themselves with less time, more stressed and tired, struggle to maintain a routine with healthy habits. Thus, during this period, inadequate nutrition, sedentary behavior, and irregular sleep are frequently observed; practices that often persist into adulthood. The objective of this study is to analyze the demographic, clinical, and psychosocial profile of this group, identifying crucial nuances for the implementation of care and the promotion of a healthier academic life. This is an analytical, quantitative, cross-sectional study conducted in higher education institutions in a city in the interior of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The target audience was students enrolled in Nursing and Medicine courses who underwent data collection through a validated and authorized structured instrument for demographic, clinical, behavioral, and psychosocial characterization. The study obtained a final sample of 86 participants. Among them, 8% had hypertension, 2% had diabetes mellitus, and 35% had some mental illness. Additionally, 48% were alcohol consumers, 7% were smokers, and 26% were sedentary. Finally, 66% of the participants reported having a stressful life, and 42% did not have a healthy diet. In light of the above, it is evident that university routines can negatively impact various aspects of students' lives, both physical and mental. Therefore, it is indisputable to pay attention to this scenario and seek strategies for care and promotion of a healthier academic life.