Background: Existing data indicate that poor hydration status adversely affects academic performance and health status of college students, but hydration studies among students have not received sufficient research and educational attention. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of dehydration among college students in Southern Nigeria.Methods: A total of 500 students (190 males and 310 females), ages between 18 and 35 years filled out a supervised questionnaire which included questions pertaining to socio-demographics, lifestyle habits, perceived symptoms, academic performance, urinary characteristics and water/fluid intake. Hydration status was determined using urinary specific gravity during the month of October 2016. Mean values were calculated and used to determine the hydration status of participants. Multivariable regression analysis was used to determine odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence interval for factors associated with poor hydration status of participants.Results: About 46.4% of participants were dehydrated. Insufficient water intake (OR=6.41, 95% CI:2.121-19.385, P=0.001), alcohol drinking habits (OR=4.17, 95% CI: 1.313-13.258, P=0.015), night clubbing habits (OR=2.51, 95% CI:1.261-3.822, P=0.034) and being exposed to hot environment (OR=2.16, 95% CI:1.998-4.656, P=0.041) were factors associated with increased odds of dehydration among participants. Other factors associated with higher odds of dehydration include regular coffee intake (OR=2.93, 95% CI:1.788-5.622, P=0.017), experiencing academic stress (OR=1.53, 95% CI:1.041-2.251, P=0.031) and having parents or guardians of middle or low SES (OR=2.21, 95% CI:1.70-4.267, P=0.42) and (OR=3.42, 95% CI:1.655-7.82, P=0.015) respectively.Conclusions: Indeed, there is a high prevalence of dehydration and associated risk factors among college students. Intervention programs to reduce dehydration among students should include these factors among others for improved quality of life and academic performance.
High prevalence and associated risk factors of dehydration among college students: implications for health and academic performance