The Impact of Internet Addiction on Academic Performance among Medical Students in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study and the Potential Role of Yoga

Abstract

Background: Excessive internet use is a growing concern globally, and internet addiction negatively impacts academic performance. Limited research has been conducted on this topic among undergraduate medical students in Bangladesh. Purpose: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of internet addiction and its impact on academic performance among medical students in Bangladesh, with a focus on the role of Yoga in reducing internet addiction. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among third-year medical students in four colleges in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Simple random sampling techniques were used to select participants, and data were collected using pre-tested questionnaires and a checklist for office records through face-to-face interviews. SPSS version 25 was used for data processing and analysis. Results: Out of 312 students, 84% were addicted to the internet, and only 16% were normal. 64.4% had good results in the first professional examination, while 35.6% had poor results. 85.9% had good attendance, while 14.1% had poor attendance. The association between internet addiction level and first professional examination results and class attendance was highly significant. Conclusion: This study highlights the high prevalence and negative impacts of internet addiction among medical students in Bangladesh. The study suggests that promoting awareness about healthy technology use, establishing a better balance between internet usage and academic study, and encouraging the practice of Yoga can help alleviate this problem. Further research and interventions are needed to tackle this emerging public health issue. Encouraging students to use the internet for academic purposes and providing education and resources can help promote healthy technology use. Healthcare professionals should also be aware of the risks and encourage seeking help if needed.