Percepción de la imagen corporal y su relación con el género y el índice de masa corporal en los estudiantes de la Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud de la Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja

Abstract

Abstract: The study of body image focuses on how each person perceives their physical appearance. The objective was to determine the body image perception of students from the Faculty of Health Sciences at the Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, and its relationship with gender and Body Mass Index (BMI). This was a cross-sectional analytical study with 347 students (243 women and 104 men). BMI was calculated from weight and height, and body image perception was assessed using the Stunkard and Stellard instrument, modified by Collins. The results showed that the majority identified with body shapes 4 (23 kg/m²) and 5 (25 kg/m²). 63.2% perceived themselves adequately, but those who were overweight or obese tended to underestimate their body image. Women generally had a perception consistent with their BMI, although they also underestimated their image. Men have a more inadequate perception. It is concluded that body image perception varies by gender, and those with a higher-than-normal BMI tend to have a negative perception.