Effects of Exam Stress on Body Mass Index in medical students of Al-Wataniya Private University

Abstract

Stress refers to the body's response to overwhelming pressures that exceed one's capacity to manage various demands. Stress leads to several physiological disorders; therefore, this study investigates the effect of exam stress on plasma levels of Cortisol and Body Mass Index (BMI), among 40 medical students at Al-Wataniya Private University. These parameters were assessed 11 weeks prior to the final exams (Pre-exams) and on the day of exams (during exams). Cortisol was increased significantly during-exams compared to pre-exams period, which could potentially increase the risk of metabolic diseases. While BMI distribution was close in both periods, suggesting stress-BMI relationship may depend on individual stress coping mechanisms, and lifestyle of student