Obesity, food habits and socio-demographic factors among university students in Germany: a cross-sectional study

Obesity represents a growing public health challenge globally, with rising prevalence among university students. Its causes extend beyond diet and exercise, encompassing socioeconomic background, experiences of discrimination, and family education and migration history. This study examined obesity among German university students using data from the 2016 Studitemps survey, which included over 9,960 participants and mirrors key characteristics of national statistics and the largest social study of German students “Sozialerhebung 2016”. Findings reveal that obesity prevalence was higher among male students and increased with age, ranging from 3.4% in the youngest group to 9.8% in those aged 30–34. Students with less-educated parents or with a migration background showed notably higher obesity rates. Additionally, those living alone, relying on student loans, or frequently using food delivery services were more likely to be obese, while those living in shared flats had lower rates. Public and university initiatives should focus on at-risk groups by improving access to shared accommodations, promoting healthier food choices to reduce reliance on delivery services, and addressing cultural challenges faced by students from migrant or lower-education households. In conclusion, this study highlights the complex interplay of socio-demographic and lifestyle factors in obesity among university students.