Examining relationship between unhealthy lifestyle and life satisfaction among new students at Tehran University of Medical Sciences

Mohamad Eshaghi, Keyvan Karimi, Nekoo Panahi, Yosra Azizpour, Farideh Razi, Anis Gharajeh, Samaneh Akbarpour and Fatemeh Hadavandsiri

PLOS ONE, 2026, vol. 21, issue 7, 1-9

Abstract: Background: Transitioning to university is a critical period marked by lifestyle changes, academic pressures, and increasing autonomy, which can influence students’ overall well-being. Previous research suggests that unhealthy lifestyle behaviors—including poor diet, insufficient physical activity, inadequate sleep, and ineffective stress management—may negatively impact life satisfaction among young adults. Methods: This cross-sectional study examined the relationship between lifestyle and life satisfaction among newly enrolled undergraduate students at Tehran University of Medical Sciences in 2024. Participants completed structured questionnaires assessing multiple lifestyle domains (diet, physical activity, sleep, smoking, alcohol use) and life satisfaction using validated Iranian questionnaires. Lifestyle scores were categorized as “healthy” or “unhealthy,” and life satisfaction as “good” or “poor.” Associations were analyzed using Pearson’s chi-square test and multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for age, sex, socioeconomic status, and anxiety. Results: Overall, of the 419 students, 294 (70.2%) reported good life satisfaction. Socioeconomic status and anxiety levels differed significantly across life satisfaction groups (p

Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:plo:pone00:0344179

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0344179

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