Effects of Sri Lankan economic crisis on health, lifestyle and education of medical students in Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo – an online survey

Abstract

Background

In 2022, Sri Lanka experienced an unprecedented economic crisis (EC), leading to shortages of food, fuel, electricity, and medical supplies. This unprecedented EC is likely to result in significant setbacks for medical education as well. This study aimed to assess the impact of the EC on medical students at a state university in Sri Lanka.

Methods

A Cross-sectional study with a retrospective component was conducted in July–August 2022 among medical students at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo. Invitations to participate in the study were sent via the official university email, with a Google Form. Socio-demographic data, the self-reported impact of the EC on physical well-being (diet, physical activity and sleep), psychosocial wellbeing, quality of education, and career plans were collected. The responses were recorded using a 5-point Likert scale. Univariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the likelihood of being affected by the EC in relation to diet, psychological and sociological aspects. Chi-square analysis was performed for proportional comparisons. A P value of < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

A total of 388 of medical students participated, 52.8% were female. Nearly half (n = 184, 47.4%) had a monthly family income of < USD 280. Majority agreed that, due to the EC, they were unable to access a balanced diet (n = 239,61.6%) or had a limited variety of food (n = 279, 71.9%). Physical activity had increased in 39.7% (n = 154) and quality of sleep had not changed in 56.4% (n = 219). Increased anxiety was reported by 55.4%, stress by 40.2%, and feelings of hopelessness about the future by 71.4% (n = 277). Interest in a clinical post-graduate career decreased from 69% (n = 267) to 58% (n = 226) (p < 0.001) before and during the EC. The non-medical career and emigration also had increased from 3% (n = 11) to 9% (n = 33) (p < 0.001) and from 12%(n = 47) to 66% (n = 257) (p < 0.001) respectively.

Conclusions

The EC has adversely affected the well-being and education of medical students. The shift in career plans among professionals poses a potential risk of brain drain, which could have significant negative impacts on the future of healthcare services.