Obesity in University Settings: Study of Body Mass Index (BMI) and Body Fat Percentage among Students at Gaston Berger University of Saint-Louis in 2025

Abstract

Objective: Determining the frequency of obesity within the student population is crucial to anticipating the prevention of chronic diseases among future adult populations. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of obesity among university students. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from February 14 to March 3, 2025, on the social campus of Gaston Berger University of Saint-Louis. Obesity was assessed using two anthropometric approaches: the Quetelet Body Mass Index (BMI) and body fat estimation using the Deurenberg formula. Results: A total of 800 students were included in the study. The population was predominantly male (59.2%) with a mean age of 23.0 ± 2.9 years. Regarding lifestyle habits, 7.4% of participants reported tobacco use, and 3.0% reported alcohol consumption. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 7.0% and 2.1%, respectively, based on BMI, and 5.2% and 1.0% based on body fat percentage. Conclusion: Obesity appears to be relatively uncommon in this student population, although isolated cases of overweight and obesity are notable. The study also highlighted a non-negligible proportion of underweight individuals. To combat all forms of malnutrition, targeted nutritional education and awareness strategies for students should be strengthened.