Non-communicable diseases like cardiovascular issues lead to global deaths. Elevated blood pressure often precedes hypertension, especially in young adults. Yet its drivers in this group need more study. In a study published in the Cureus, the researchers checked prevalence and factors in undergraduate medical students.

This cross-sectional study ran at JJM Medical College, Davangere, India, from August to October 2024. It excluded students with known hypertension or treatment. All 220 participants finished the protocol. Data came from a tested questionnaire, body measures, and BP readings after consent. Analyses linked BP status to factors like BMI and diet.

Participants split as 119 males (54%) and 101 females (45.9%); most were 21 years old (52.7%). Family hypertension history hit 32.7%; obesity (by BMI) was 28.5%. Elevated BP showed in 67 (30.45%). Stage I hypertension affected 56 (25.45%); Stage II hit 20 (9.09%). BMI, gender, diet patterns, and waist circumference tied significantly to BP levels.

In this group of young medical students, modifiable factors like higher BMI, diet, and waist size associated with elevated BP and hypertension. These cross-sectional findings point to early risks. Larger studies could confirm patterns and support screening needs.