This study aimed to determine the association of internet addiction with poor sleep quality and autonomic function in medical students. Methods: In this cross-sectional study design, we assessed internet addiction, sleep quality, demographic and basal cardiovascular parameters (blood pressure and heart rate), autonomic indices (E: I ratio and isometric handgrip test (ΔDBP ihg ) in 148 medical students. Sleep quality and internet usage were assessed using questionnaires. Qualitative data were expressed in number (percentage) and analyzed using the Chi-square test. Normally distributed quantitative data were analyzed using student t-test and expressed as mean and SD. Logistic regression analysis was done to determine the association between sleep quality and internet addiction. p-value of <0.05 was considered to be significant. Results: In the present study, 64.9% of participants reported moderate internet usage, and 19.6% reported excessive internet usage. The preference for internet usage at night-time was more than daytime. Further, the internet addicted group demonstrated increased resting heart rate. We also observed a significant association between internet addiction and sleep quality. Conclusion: These findings of the present study show that internet overuse is associated with poor sleep quality in undergraduate medical students.

BACKGROUND: Loss of physical function during the process of aging might affect the quality of life. Physical function assessment tests predicts outcomes such as falls, institutionalization, and death. Studies assessing the association of physical function with quality of life and physical activity level of elderly population in India is scarce. Hence we aimed to assess the physical function of community dwelling older adults and to determine its association with physical activity levels and quality of life. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional analytical study. 89 community dwelling older adults between 60 and 80 years of age were recruited. Physical function was assessed by standing balance, walking speed, and grip strength. Quality of life was assessed by WHO QOL BREF questionnaire and physical activity level was assessed by International Physical activity Questionnaire. RESULTS: Standing balance was reduced in 24% and walking speed was decreased in 33% of the participants. Males had higher walking speed, and grip strength. Quality of life was better among males. Standing balance, walking speed and grip strength was significantly higher in moderate – heavy activity levels. There was positive correlation between physical function and quality of life. There was also positive correlation between physical activity level and quality of life. CONCLUSION: Physical function, quality of life and physical activity level were decreased. Males had better physical function and quality of life. Physically active individuals had better physical function and quality of life. Early detection of decreased physical function and increase in physical activity level could result in better quality of life among elderly.

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