The Relationship between Internet Addiction and Disordered Eating Attitudes Among Two Cohorts of Undergraduate Students in Karachi, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to assess and compare the frequency of Internet Addiction (IA) and Disordered Eating Attitudes (DEA) among medical and non-medical university students in Karachi, Pakistan, and examine their relationship.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among medical and non-medical students in Karachi, Pakistan. Two hundred students completed a socio-demographic questionnaire along with validated questionnaires: the Internet Addiction Test (IAT) for IA assessment and the Eating Attitude Test-26 (EAT-26) for measuring eating attitudes and behaviors.

Results: No significant difference was found in IA levels between the two groups. However, non-medical students (46.5%, n=93) were significantly more at risk of DEA compared to medical students (45.5%, n=91) (p-value=0.043). A significant positive correlation was observed between IA and DEA (r = 0.599, p-value < 0.001).

Conclusion: The study highlights a positive correlation between IA and disordered eating attitudes. Non-medical students are particularly at risk of developing such attitudes. Future research should delve into the factors contributing to both IA and DEA.