Objective: To determine the prevalence of ultra-processed food consumption and its association with overweight and obesity among students of the Faculty of Public Health, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City in 2026.
Subjects and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 students enrolled in the Faculty of Public Health, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, from January to April 2026. Ultra-processed food consumption was assessed using the NOVA-UPF score based on a 24-hour dietary recall. Anthropometric measurements included height, weight, and waist circumference.
Results: The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 32.8%, while the prevalence of central obesity was 19.2%. The proportion of students consuming ultra-processed foods within the previous 24 hours was 92.0%. No statistically significant association was found between ultra-processed food consumption and overweight and obesity.
Conclusion: Although no statistically significant association was observed, the study found a high prevalence of ultra-processed food consumption and a considerable burden of overweight and obesity among students. These findings suggest the need for timely health communication and supportive interventions to improve nutritional status and promote healthier dietary behaviors among university students.