Abstract

Background: obesity is classified as chronic and severe disease in developed and developing countries with increasing prevalence worldwide. Obesity is associated with many noncommunicable diseases such cardiovascular diseases; diabetes; musculoskeletal disorders; some cancers, respiratory problems and cognitive disorders. The relationship between obesity and impaired cognitive functions remains doubtful. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and cognitive function. Subjects and methods: This was observational descriptive cross section study and included all medical students at International University of Africa (IUA). Two hundred and ninety seven students were selected by stratified random sampling. For each student weight and height were measured and BMI was calculated. The cognitive function was assessed using modified minimental test which includes tests of orientation, registration, attention, calculation, recall, and visual- spatial skills. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 24 program. Descriptive data were presented as means+/- SD or frequencies. The relationship between BMI and cognitive function analyzed using ANOVA test. P value < 0.05 considered significant. Results: The average age of students was 20.9 ± 1.9 years. The prevalence of obesity among medical students was 8.4%. Obesity had no significant relationship with gender or nationality. The average score of mini-mental test was 1.6 ± 0.7. Female students had lower minimental score compared to males (P=0.05). There was no significant correlation between BMI and impaired cognitive function. Conclusion: Obesity has no significant correlation with impaired cognitive function; however, cohort studies are necessary to investigate this relationship