Academic failure in medical students as an effective factor in community health: A look at related factors

Introduction : The academic success of medical students can lead to better health services. Various factors can be related to their success or failure. This study investigates some factors, especially demographic factors, related to the academic failure of medical students. Methods : This case-control study was conducted in 2016 among students of Bandar Abbas Medical School. The required information was obtained from the education office of school, counseling unit, and student files. In this study, 119 students with academic failure were selected as the case and 119 students formed the control group. The criteria of academic failure in this study were the drop in average grade in the second semester compared to the first semester of more than two points, becoming contingent in one semester, and having an average grade point from 12 to 14. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and descriptive and analytical statistics (independent t-test, chi-square, logistic regression, and odds ratio). Results : The results showed that there was a statistically significant relationship between residence status, father's and mother's educational level, and the type of diploma and academic failure (P< 0.05). But there was no relationship between age at the time of academic failure, marital status, diploma grade point average, acceptance quota, and acceptance rank and academic failure (P<0.05). Based on the results of logistic regression, none of variables related to each other. Conclusion : According to the results of this study, social and cultural factors such as residence status and educational status of student parents can be associated with academic failure. Therefore, in order to promote the future of community health, these factors should be considered.