Effects of a College-Based Intervention to Increase Physical Activity and Decrease Screen Time Among Pakistani Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background The increasing prevalence of physical inactivity and excessive screen time among college students poses significant health risks, including obesity and related diseases. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a 12-week multilevel intervention designed to enhance physical activity and reduce screen time among Pakistani college students aged 18–25. Objective This study aimed to assess the impact of a structured intervention incorporating physical education improvements, extracurricular activities, and family engagement on the physical activity levels and screen time of Pakistani college students. Methods Employing a randomized controlled trial design, this research was conducted in eight public colleges in Lahore, Punjab. Cluster sampling was utilized to form two groups: an intervention group (n = 980) and a control group (n = 1,020). Pre- and post-test surveys, along with anthropometric measurements, were employed to evaluate changes in physical activity, screen time, and weight status, using BMI as a measure of overweight and obesity. Results At baseline, both groups exhibited similar demographic characteristics and physical activity levels. Post-intervention results showed a significant increase in physical activity in the intervention group, with 75% engaging in physical activity more than twice a week compared to 30% pre-intervention (p < 0.001). Conversely, the control group maintained high levels of inactivity, with 73% reporting less than twice a week of physical activity. Screen time decreased significantly in the intervention group (p < 0.001), alongside notable reductions in BMI and waist circumference. Conclusion The multilevel intervention effectively increased physical activity and reduced screen time among Pakistani college students. These findings underscore the importance of implementing structured, supportive interventions in educational settings to foster healthier lifestyles among young adults. Further research is warranted to explore long-term sustainability and scalability of such interventions across diverse populations.