Chronic Disease Prevalence and Modifiable Risk Factors Among Undergraduate Students at Ha'il University: A Population-Level Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND

Rising rates of chronic conditions among Saudi youth underscore the need for early prevention. Using a public‑health lens focused on demographic, academic, and lifestyle influences, this study investigates the risk and protective factors for chronic disease among students at the University of Ha'il to guide youth‑centered health policies and long‑term wellbeing initiatives.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 10,775 undergraduate students studying in bachelor's degree programs at Ha'il University, Saudi Arabia. Descriptive analyses were used to assess demographic characteristics, academic status, health status, and health-related lifestyles. Multiple logistic regression models were applied to determine which demographic, academic, and health-related lifestyle factors significantly predicted chronic disease among university students.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of chronic diseases was 16.2% (n = 1748). Among chronic diseases, diabetes was the most prevalent 6.8% (n = 731), followed by migraines 5.4% (n = 583), heart disease 2.0% (n = 217), hypercholesterolemia 1.9% (n=201), and others 0.1% (n = 16). The results showed that younger, female, and married students had greater odds of developing chronic disease. Among the study-related variables, academic level, Grade Percentage Average (GPA), missed lectures, and intention to withdraw were significantly associated with chronic diseases. Among psychological variables, high stress levels significantly increased the odds of having chronic disease [AOR = 9.87 (95% CI: 8.01-11.34), p < 0.001]. Students with unhealthy lifestyles were more likely to have chronic diseases than those with a healthy lifestyle [AOR = 2.60 (95% CI: 2.33-2.90), p < 0.001].

CONCLUSION

The 16.2% prevalence of chronic health conditions among university students is a notable public health concern within this typically healthy population. Demographic and academic vulnerabilities were further intensified by modifiable lifestyle behaviors which showed strong associations with chronic disease prevalence thus findings imply prioritizing student health through culturally grounded interventions.