The Association of Body Mass Index, Eating Habits, And Physical Activity on Menstrual Health among Female Students Aged 14 to 16 Years Old at SMK Shah Alam
Abstract
This cross-sectional study examined the association between Body Mass Index (BMI), eating habits and patterns, physical activity levels, and menstrual health in 237 female students aged 14 to 16 at SMK Shah Alam. BMI-for-age was determined using anthropometric measures, and validated Malay versions of the Eating Behaviour and Pattern Questionnaire (EBPQ), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and Menstrual Disorder of Teenagers (MDOT) questionnaire were used to evaluate dietary behaviour, physical activity, and menstrual health, respectively. BMI-for-age and menstrual health were significantly correlated (χ²=11.221, p=0.024), with higher prevalence of menstrual disorders observed among students classified as thin or severely thin. A substantial correlation was found between eating habits and menstrual health (χ²=10.978, p=0.004), with students with good dietary patterns reporting fewer menstruation problems. Physical activity level, as measured by IPAQ, was substantially correlated with menstrual health overall (χ²=7.148, p=0.028). The results highlight how crucial it is to maintain a healthy weight, have good eating behaviour, and exercise regularly to promote adolescents' reproductive health. These findings are helpful in directing school-based health initiatives and educating parents, teachers, and medical professionals on how to promote the long-term health of teenage females.
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