The association of body mass index, eating habits, and physical activity on menstrual health among female students aged 14 to 16 years old at SMK Shah Alam

Menstrual health is a critical part of teenage well-being influenced by body composition, food habits, and physical activity. This cross-sectional study examined the association between body mass index (BMI), eating habits and patterns, physical activity levels, and menstrual health in 237 female students aged 14 to 16 at SMK Shah Alam. BMI-for-age was determined using anthropometric measures, and validated Malay versions of the Eating Behaviour and Pattern Questionnaire (EBPQ), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and Menstrual Disorder of Teenagers (MDOT) questionnaire were used to evaluate dietary behaviour, physical activity, and menstrual health, respectively. Dysmenorrhea was the most frequent menstrual disorder, with 50.6% of respondents reporting at least one problem. BMI- for-age and menstrual health were significantly correlated (χ² = 11.221, p = 0.024), especially for those classified as thin or severely thin. BMI status and dysmenorrhea were significantly correlated (p = 0.018), but not with other diseases. A substantial correlation was found between eating habits and menstrual health (χ² = 10.978, p = 0.004), with students with good dietary patterns reporting fewer menstruation problems. Physical activity level was substantially correlated with menstrual health overall (χ² = 7.148, p = 0.028), although eating habits and physical activity levels did not significantly correspond with specific menstrual diseases. The results highlight how crucial it is to maintain a healthy weight, have good eating behaviour, and exercise regularly to promote adolescents' reproductive health. These findings are helpful in directing school-based health initiatives and educating parents, teachers, and medical professionals on how to promote the long-term health of teenage females.