Abstract
Background: The prevalence of stress among medical students has been reported to be different. Medical undergraduates especially in MBBS first phase are more likely to develop psychological distress than in later phases. It may affect their physical and mental health leading to anxiety, depression, and poor academic performance.

Aim and Objectives: The objectives of this study are as follows: (1) To assess the prevalence of stress and its effects among Medical undergraduates, that is, MBBS 1st Phase students at the time of their joining to the course (baseline) and after about 8 months of their joining (repeat testing). (2) To compare any difference in levels of stress and its physical and psychological effects among male and female students.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with the help of Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) on 141 students of MBBS first Phase in the Department of Physiology. The data were collected only after taking informed consent.

Results: Among our male and female students at the time of baseline scoring, mild anxiety was observed in (95% of males and 91% of females) and mild-to-moderate anxiety (4% of males and 8% of females). At the time of repeat scoring mild anxiety (93% of males and 85% of females), mild-to-moderate anxiety (7% of males and 10% of females) was observed. Anxiety was observed to be more in our female students as compared to male students. Comparative analysis of each variable of HAM-A (baseline and repeat score) showed a significant difference (P < 0.001) in eight HAM-A variables in repeat score as compared to four variables in baseline score.

Conclusion: Early screening of MBBS first phase students should be planned for the presence of stress and its negative and lethal health consequences. Academic and psychological counseling should be provided to them.

Key words: Stress; Mental Status; Medical Students; HAM-A