Multifactorial Determinants of Health-Related Quality of Life and Academic Performance Among Health Sciences Students
Gustavo F. Gonzales, Susana Lingán-Huamán, José Luis Guzman, Cinthya Vásquez-VelásquezBackground
Health-related quality of life (HRQL) and academic performance are influenced by psychological, nutritional, lifestyle, and structural factors. Health Sciences students may be particularly vulnerable to mental health challenges, unhealthy behaviors, and gender-related conditions that affect well-being and academic outcomes. This study examined determinants of HRQL and grade point average (GPA) among university students enrolled in Health Sciences programs.
Methods
A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 644 undergraduate students from Medicine, Psychology, Physical Activity and Sports Sciences, and Nutrition and Dietetics at a private Peruvian university (2025-II). HRQL was assessed using the SF-20 (HRQL). Anxiety (GAD-7), depression (PHQ-9), emotional eating (EEQ), healthy eating habits (BHEHS), lifestyle (FANTASTIC), and GPA were evaluated. Multivariable linear regression models were developed for HRQL and GPA.
Results
Moderate-to-severe anxiety and depression were observed in 32% and 37% of students, respectively. HRQL was significantly lower in females and inversely correlated with psychological distress. Lifestyle indicators were positively associated with both HRQL and GPA. In adjusted models, female sex, access to sanitation, academic program, and FANTASTIC lifestyle score were independently associated with higher GPA. HRQL was not independently associated with GPA after adjustment. Marked heterogeneity was observed across programs, with Physical Activity and Sports Sciences students demonstrating the most favorable psychological and lifestyle profiles.
Conclusions
Student well-being in Health Sciences is multifactorial and program specific. Although psychological distress and reduced HRQL are prevalent, academic performance appears to be primarily influenced by structural and lifestyle factors rather than mental health alone.