Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic: Lockdown related morbidity among young adults in Chennai, India

V. Anu 1, *, Mohammed Meera Riyaz 2, G, Siva Santhana Lakshmi 3 and A. Kanimozhi 4

1 Professor and Head, Department of Public Health Dentistry, Sathyabama Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, India.
2 Senior Lecturer, Department of Public Health Dentistry, Sathyabama Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, India.
3 Dental student, Sathyabama Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, India.
 
Research Article
International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024, 12(01), 748–757.
Article DOI: 10.30574/ijsra.2024.12.1.0845
Publication history: 
Received on 02 April 2024; revised on 15 May 2024; accepted on 18 May 2024
 
Abstract: 
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic triggered widespread lockdown measures, profoundly altering the daily routines and lifestyles of individuals worldwide. This study aims to investigate the repercussions of these lockdowns on the morbidity patterns among young adults in Chennai.
Methods: A web-based questionnaire survey was conducted among 1110 young adults aged 18 to 29 years in Chennai, India. The study analyzed various aspects of health, encompassing physical, mental, and social well-being, during the lockdown period using a prevalidated questionnaire. Frequency distribution of variables and chi-square tests for categorical variables were employed.
Result: The study revealed significant impacts on physical, mental, and social well-being during the lockdown period. Physical health was affected, with weight gain (56.83%) being the most common morbid condition due to physical inactivity and frequent eating. Headaches (33.24%) were prevalent, attributed to prolonged digital screen exposure and irregular sleep patterns. Psychological impacts included stress rates of 43.42% among young adults.
Conclusion: This research highlights the intricate relationship between COVID-19 lockdown measures and morbidity among young adults. The findings provide valuable insights into the potential long-term implications of the pandemic on the health of this demographic group, emphasizing the importance of targeted interventions and support systems.
 
Keywords: 
COVID 19; Mental health; Psychological; Neurological; Systemic health
 
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