International Journal of Preclinical and Clinical Research

Abstract

The entire globe is undergoing an unprecedented challenge of unimaginable proportions due to COVID-19 which has affected the lifestyle behaviour of individuals. This study was done to assess the impact of COVID-19 on changes in lifestyle behavior among general population of Chitradurga district. This was a cross-sectional study using online survey by google forms with link sent using WhatsApp. The data was collected from the general population from December 2021 to January 2022. Daily reminder was sent. The survey invitation clearly stated that the participants will have the right not to participate in the survey and participation in the survey will imply providing informed consent. The survey questionnaire would take around 5–7 min to complete which included socio-demographic profile and questions regarding life style. Total 705 responses were received by the stipulated time. Data was extracted in excel sheet from google form and analyzed using SPSS software version 20. Descriptive statistics expressed as frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviation. There were total 705 participants and their mean age was 43.8 years with SD of 9.62. 682 (96.8%) were Hindu by religion, majority (50.1%) of the participants were graduates and 367 (52.1%) were employers. Majority of the respondents heard about COVID-19 pandemic (97.7%) and knew what COVID-19 exactly was (96.2%). Majority (93.1%) of the respondents recognized the symptoms of COVID-19. Majority (88.5%) were supportive of government's decision. Life-style change was mixed. It had affected the food pattern i.e the probability of skipping meals has decreased by 24.2%. The habit of snacking between the main meals has increased by 54.1%. The daily intake of fruits and vegetables has increased by 52.5%. The consumption of fast food or junk food has decreased by 49.2%. The intake of sugar sweetened beverages has decreased by 42.4%. The participation in cooking new or traditional recipes has increased by 58%. The consumption of unhealthy food when bored has remained same as before by 38%. The intake of nutritional supplements to boost immunity has increased by 60.9%. The time spent in exercise has increased by 48.9%. The participation in leisure activity has increased by 57%. The sitting and screening time has increased by 65.9%. The hours of sleep has increased by 54.1%. The quality of sleep has increased by 44.9%. At the same time the stress and anxiety levels has increased by 45.9%. There is mixed response but most have indulged in eating unhealthy food like junk foods but they have shown interest in learning about healthy lifestyle by involving in cooking and household works.