Faktor – Faktor yang Mempengaruhi Indeks Massa Tubuh pada Mahasiswa Fakultas Keperawatan Universitas Sumatera Utara yang Tinggal Mandiri

Abstract

Body mass index (BMI) is a simple index of weight relative to height, where a high or low BMI may indicate more serious health issues. This study aims to identify BMI and the factors influencing BMI among independent-living students at the Faculty of Nursing. Universitas Sumatera Utara. The study population consisted of all nursing students, totaling 505 individuals, with a sample size of 143 respondents selected through purposive sampling. This study employs a descriptive exploratory design, with univariate analysis using frequency distribution tables and crass- tabulation. The results showed that 26 respondents (18.2%) had a BMI 185 (underweight), 83 respondents (58%) had a BMI of 18.6-25.0 (normal), 10 respondents (7%) had a BMI of 25.1-27.0 (overweight), and 24 respondents, (16.8%) had a BMI 27.0 (obese). The findings indicate that the majority of respondents had a normal BMI, with most being female (122 respondents, 85.3%). aged 21 years (42 respondents, 29.4%), and having a family genetic background with a normal BMI (91 respondents, 63.6%). The most commonly consumed staple food was rice more than once a day (99 respondents), protein source was chicken more than once a day (58 respondents), vegetables and legumes were green beans 1-3 times per month (54 respondents, 37.8%), fruits were mangoes 1-3 times per month (50 respondents, 35%), dairy products were cheese 1-3 times per month (6) respondents), and snacks were pizza 1-3 times per month (65 respondents, 45.5%). Moreover, the majority of respondents had a moderate activity level (71 respondents, 49.7%). The findings of this study can serve as additional knowledge and benefit nursing services in understanding the factors influencing BMI, thus providing comprehensive information and nursing care to improve healthfare quality.