40% outstation students suffer from hypertension in Kota:Study

Forty per cent of outstation students undergoing coaching for engineering and medical entrance exams in the city is suffering from hypertension and high blood pressure, a survey said.
According to the study conducted by medicine department of Kota government medical college, stress of cracking entrance tests and homesickness has caused 40 per cent of the students, who came here from across the country, to suffer from high blood pressure and hypertension.
The study, conducted over 100 girls and as many boys of 16-19 age group, stated that boys are more vulnerable to hypertension.
"Modification in lifestyle, Yoga and disciplined eating habits could greatly reduce hypertension and stress among the students," said Prof Meenakshi Sharda, who led the research team.

The study recommended counselling, health check-up facilities and other motivational activities at coaching institutes to help students cope with stress.
Over one lakh students from across the country every year enrol at various medical and engineering coaching centres in the city.