Physical and Mental State of Students of the Propaedeutic Course for Admission to Medicine of the National University of Asunción

Abstract

Introduction: Lifestyle significantly in-fluences applicants‘ health and quality of life to the Medicine program at the National University of Asunción participating in the Preparatory Course. They face long study hours, high competition, and social pressure, increasing the risk of adopting unhealthy habits.

Objective: To assess the health-related quality of life of Medicine applicants at the National University of Asunción enrolled in the 2024 Preparatory Course using the SF-12v2 health questionnaire.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 107 students from the 2024 Preparatory Course for Admission to Medicine at the National University of Asunción. The SF-12v2 questionnaire was administered online to evaluate physical and mental health.

Results: Of the respondents, 68.2% were female, aged 18–23, and 98,1% were single. The average score for the physical summary component was 45,9, while the mental summary component scored 37,09.

Discussion: Academic stress adversely impacts overall health, particularly among women, increasing the risk of musculoskeletal and metabolic diseases.

Conclusions: Among the respondents, 68.2% were women aged 18–23, and 98.1% were single. Average physical and mental health scores were below the U.S. standard.