BMC Med Educ. 2026 Jul 20. doi: 10.1186/s12909-026-09967-1. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Medical Student Syndrome (MSS) is a well-recognized phenomenon characterized by transient health anxiety and misinterpretation of benign bodily sensations as symptoms of serious illness. However, it remains underexplored in Yemen, particularly among medical students exposed to clinical training stressors. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of MSS-like symptoms among medical students at Thamar University, Yemen, identify associated factors, and assess perceived severity and functional impact.
METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 193 medical students at Thamar University, Yemen. MSS-like symptoms were defined as a self-reported experience consistent with MSS, supported by at least four of five supporting features such as transient and recurrent symptoms with reported normal test results, and short symptom duration. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant characteristics and the prevalence of MSS-like symptoms. Bivariable associations were assessed using the chi-square test, and multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify associated factors. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.
RESULTS: The prevalence of MSS-like symptoms based solely on self-reported experience was 71.0% (137/193), while 37.3% (72/193) met the operational definition. Among participants with MSS-like symptoms, 35 (48.6%) reported moderate perceived severity and 54 (75%) reported moderate perceived functional impact on daily activities and academic performance. In multivariable analysis, MSS-like symptoms were associated with being in the fifth academic year (AOR = 2.58, 95% CI: 1.14-5.82, p = 0.022) and having a chronic disease (AOR = 4.68, 95% CI: 2.17-10.09, p < 0.001).
CONCLUSIONS: More than one-third of medical students at Thamar University met the operational MSS like symptoms. These findings suggest that MSS-like symptoms may be associated with academic exposure and individual health context. Integrating mental health support and stress management strategies into medical training may help reduce health-related anxiety and improve student well-being.
PMID:42477675 | DOI:10.1186/s12909-026-09967-1
