Associations Between BMI, Quality of Life, and the Role of Pharmacist-Led Health Promotion Among University Students in Oman

Pharmacy Practice

  • Dr Yousra Al-Sinani1Professor, Curriculum and Instruction, College of Education, Sultan Qaboos University, Al Khoud, Oman.
  • Majid AL Busafi2Professor, Director: Humanities Research Center, Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, College of Education, Sultan Qaboos University.
  • Wafa Al Mamari3Assistant Professor, HoD Sociology and Social Work, Department of Sociology and Social Work, College of Arts and Social Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University.
  • Anfal Al-Wahaibi4Assistant Professor, Assistant Dean of Students Affairs for Social Services, Department of Education Foundation, College of Education, Sultan Qaboos University.

Volume 24 Issue 2 Pages 1-8

DOI: 10.18549/PharmPract.2026.2.3394

Abstract

Background: Obesity and undernutrition are dual public health challenges affecting physical and mental health worldwide. University students, particularly in the Middle East, face unique lifestyle challenges influencing Body Mass Index (BMI) and health-related Quality of Life (QoL). However, limited research has explored these dynamics in the region. This study aimed to evaluate the associations between BMI categories, QoL, and demographic factors among university students in Oman, and to explore the influence of pharmacist-led health counseling and students’ use of supplements or medications on perceived QoL and weight-related health behaviors. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive correlational design was employed, surveying 664 students at Sultan Qaboos University using the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) to assess QoL and demographic data. Participants were categorised into BMI groups based on World Health Organization standards. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests and multinomial logistic regression to examine relationships between BMI, QoL domains, and predictors. Results: BMI categories were significantly associated with QoL scores. Students with healthy weight reported the highest QoL scores, while those classified as obese scored the lowest, particularly in physical health domains. Mental health scores declined with increasing BMI. Age and gender were significant predictors of BMI categories; older students and males were more likely to be overweight or obese, while younger students and females were more often underweight. Demographic factors, including gender-specific trends, highlighted cultural and lifestyle influences. Conclusions: Higher BMI was linked to declines in physical and mental health among university students, underscoring the need for targeted interventions. Universities should implement culturally tailored health promotion strategies addressing nutritional habits, physical activity, and mental well-being to mitigate weight-related health disparities in young adults.

Keywords

  • Body Mass Index
  • Quality of Life
  • University Students
  • Oman
  • Public Health
  • SF-36
  • Cross-Sectional Study
Pharmacy Practice

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