The Effect of Body Mass Index, Fluid Intake, and Physical Activity Level on Hydration Status of Rice Farmers in Pakantan Sub-district

Abstract

Pakantan Sub-district is located in Mandailing Natal Regency, North Sumatra Province, where the majority of the population are rice farmers. Rice farmers are prone to dehydration because they do most of their work outdoors and are exposed to extreme temperatures for longer periods of time. The purpose of this study was to identify the effect of body mass index, physical activity, and fluid intake on hydration status in rice farmers in Pakantan Sub-district. The sample size in this cross-sectional study was 97 farmers selected by simple random sampling from eight villages in Pakantan Sub-district. Data were analyzed using chi square test (bivariate) and multiple logistic regression test (multivariate). The results showed that rice farmers with low levels of physical activity (Exp (B)=0.012 (95% CI: 0.000-0.893); p=0.044) and adequate fluid intake (Exp (B)=0.013 (95% CI: 0.000-0.128); p<0.001) had a lower odds of dehydration compared to rice farmers who had high levels of physical activity and indequate fluid intake. Meanwhile, body mass index had no significant effect (p=0.158) on the hydration status of rice farmers in Pakantan Sub-district. Farmers are expected to reduce excessive physical activity and are suggested to bring and drink enough water, at least 2.5 liters per day, to prevent dehydration.