Predictors of health behaviours in college students

Lower perceived stress among physically active elite private university students with higher levels of gratitude

Elite private universities have high stress levels, particularly for underrepresented populations. While physical activity and gratitude can both reduce stress, independent effects from gratitude and interaction effects between physical activity and gratitude on stress are insufficiently explored. Our study investigated these effects among undergraduates at elite private universities. Undergraduates (n = 145) completed an online survey in Fall 2022. Moderate-high physical activity levels were reported by 96.19% of the sample. No significant interaction effect between physical activity and gratitude was seen nor a significant main effect of physical activity on perceived stress. A significant main effect of gratitude on perceived stress [F (2, 99) = 16.732, p < .001, ω2 = .253] was found with higher perceived stress among participants with low compared to moderate (p = .001) or high gratitude (p < .001). Gratitude exerted an independent, significant effect on perceived stress among elite university undergraduates and could be used as an additional healthy coping mechanism along with physical activity to combat stress.

Comprehensive analysis of college students' autonomous fitness behavior-a narrative review

Although the physical health of college students is increasingly receiving attention, their autonomous fitness behavior has not been thoroughly investigated. This narrative review conducted a comprehensive literature search through databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), reviewing studies published up to December 2023. We explored the constructs of autonomy, fitness behavior, and agency, and discussed their integration within the autonomous fitness model. Our findings indicate a lack of comprehensive studies exploring the multifaceted factors influencing autonomous fitness behaviors. Future research should strive to deepen conceptual understanding and further explore the complex dynamics of the transition from autonomy to persistence, employing technological and interdisciplinary methodological perspectives to enhance understanding and promote sustainable fitness habits.

Protective and risk factors for increased alcohol use in Latinx college students on the U.S./Mexico border

Alcohol use is prevalent among undergraduates, however, limited research on drinking among Latinx college students exists. This study examined potential risk and protective factors of alcohol use and consequences. Participants (n = 382) completed multiple measures including alcohol use frequency and the Rutgers Alcohol Problem Index (RAPI). Linear regression models identified predictors of monthly and yearly drinking days and RAPI. Findings indicated that alcohol use frequency was associated with increasing age, parental alcohol use disorder, greater anger, and lower self-efficacy. Alcohol-related consequences were positively associated with anxiety and adverse childhood experiences. Early alcohol prevention and intervention efforts appear warranted.

University student perceptions of health and disease during remote learning in the COVID-19 pandemic

OBJECTIVES

Assess student perceptions of health and disease during remote learning in the COVID-19 pandemic.

PARTICIPANTS

Convenience sample of undergraduate students at a liberal arts university (n = 67).

METHODS

Survey administered across multiple sections of a required general education course in Spring 2020. Measures included Fear of COVID-19 Scale, Multidimensional Health Locus of Control, Perceived Health Competence, and COVID-19 perceived impact on students' communities and wellbeing.

RESULTS

Students reported relatively low levels of fear about COVID-19, not differing by number or severity of known cases or community impact (p = 0.67, 0.55, 0.11, respectively). Stress and mental health were priority concerns over infectious diseases. Students reported negatively affected emotional (70%) and interpersonal (67%) wellbeing; unexpectedly, over half of students reported positive impacts in ≥ one wellness dimension.

CONCLUSIONS

Student-identified concerns emphasized psychosocial wellbeing, suggesting additional need for mental health resources. Low perceived threat of infectious diseases may present barriers to COVID-19-related prevention behaviors.

Self-efficacy in health among university students: the role of social support and place

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to better understand the role of students' living arrangements (on campus, off campus, with and without their parents) on their health self-efficacy.

PARTICIPANTS

A sample of undergraduate students (n = 216) were recruited by using word of mouth and visiting classrooms in a small Atlantic Canadian university.

METHODS

Participants completed a self-report questionnaire measuring health and sleep self-efficacy. Analyses of variance and covariance were used to compare the living arrangements of the students.

RESULTS

Differences between living arrangements were found. Students living on campus had higher health self-efficacy, particularly on the psychological well-being subscale, followed by those living off campus with their parents. Students living off campus without their parents had the lowest scores.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that health self-efficacy varies according to students' living situations, thus illustrating the importance of keeping students' living arrangements in mind when designing health and well-being interventions.

Needs and interests regarding the lifestyle habits of students in a Canadian university

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we investigate university students to learn about their barriers to improving and/or maintaining a healthy lifestyle and their needs and interests regarding the development of a tailored intervention to promote physical activity and a healthy diet.

PARTICIPANTS

The qualitative research included three focus groups consisting of 22 university students.Methods: The interview grid was developed around the variables of the ecological Conceptual Framework of the Quebec Ministry of Health and Social Services. Data were analyzed using NVivo software.Results: Time constraints due to a heavy workload, high costs and low motivation were the reasons students failed to participate in physical activity and/or adopt a healthy diet. Furthermore, they perceived that on-campus food and physical activity are more expensive and the quality of food is poorer.Conclusions: Students are nevertheless interested in the development of a tailored intervention to promote physical activity and a healthy diet.

Young persons and healthcare professionals experience of virtual gastroenterology consultations: a multicentre survey conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic

Objective

To explore Young Persons (YP) and healthcare professionals (HCP) experiences of virtual consultations (VC) and establish whether developmentally appropriate healthcare can be delivered virtually.

Method

YP and HCP questionnaire surveys were designed and piloted. Electronic questionnaire links were sent by post, email or text message January-April 2021 to YP aged 13-25 years old, with predefined chronic gastrointestinal conditions, attending a gastroenterology/hepatology VC. HCP undertaking VC were invited to complete staff questionnaire. Results were anonymous and collated using Excel version 2302.

Results

Five UK hospital trusts participated, with 35 HCP responses. Of the 100 YP completing the survey 66% were female and 34% male aged between 13 years and 25 years (median: 18 years). 13% were new appointments and 87% follow ups, 29% were by video, 69% by phone and 2% gave no response. 80% of HCP spoke to YP directly but not privately (69%). 87% of YP and 88% HCP found VC useful. 83% of YP want VC again, although 20% preferred face to face. 43% of HCP required improved phone/internet connection. 77% of YP required hospital appointments for tests following VC.

Conclusions

Overall respondents were satisfied with VC, finding them useful, convenient and time saving. Successful VC rely on appropriate patient selection and availability of reliable technology. Patient preference is key which may alter with time.

University Student Health Services, Local Experience, and Emerging Needs: Bridging the Past With the Future

University students' health and well-being is critical, especially in the aftermath of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic; however, a comprehensive and integrated approach in academic institutions remains neglected. In this context, the local experience from a pilot university-based Student Health Center at an urban campus in Greece is presented. Select health promotion and disease prevention screening and monitoring initiatives are summarized from the viewpoint of a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats analysis, with emerging health needs and policy implications. Long-term sustainability is feasible, only if synergies and close collaboration with other university units and local health authorities are developed. A post-pandemic call to action for intervention programs that integrate physical and mental health care, as well as raise awareness among university stakeholders and health policy makers, is issued. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 61(3), 27-31.].

Explaining vegetarian and vegan dietary behavior among U.S. and Dutch samples applying a reasoned action approach

The present research applied the framework of the Reasoned Action Approach (RAA) to investigate intention formation of adopting vegetarian and vegan diets among U.S. and Dutch samples. First, a belief elicitation study was carried out to determine salient beliefs regarding both dietary behaviors. The U.S. sample (N = 59) together provided a total of 551 beliefs (298 vegetarian, 253 vegan) and the Dutch sample (N = 30) 294 beliefs (171 vegetarian, 123 vegan). Second, a regression study determined which reasoned action variables—Attitude, Perceived Norm and Perceived Control—explained Intention to adopt a vegetarian or a vegan diet for two separate samples. For both samples RAA-variables explained Intention relatively well (i.e., between 30 and 43% of the variance). For U.S. participants (N = 204), Instrumental and Experiential Attitude were significant predictors of their Intention to have a vegetarian or a vegan diet. For Dutch participants (N = 345), Instrumental and Experiential Attitude and Descriptive Norm predicted Intention to adopt a vegetarian diet. For adopting a vegan diet, Experiential Attitude was the only predicting variable for the Dutch sample. Almost all salient beliefs collected in the belief elicitation study significantly correlated with Intention to adopt diet, regardless of which RAA-variable they belonged to. Based on our findings, we critically evaluate the use of RAA in explaining behavioral Intentions, especially for behavior with a strong social component. Moreover, we show the importance of—the often not employed—belief elicitation phase and as such, discourage using only a regression approach. From a societal perspective, we argue that there is a strong need for interventions if one wants to encourage behavior change in the field of vegetarianism and veganism as—amongst others—average Intention scores were very low. In addition, we show that while the U.S. and Dutch samples, sharing Western norms and values, often overlapped, they also differed in subtle—yet potentially important—ways when it comes to motivations and cognitions with regard to vegetarian and vegan dietary behavior. Hence, interventions may have to include different content in order to be effective for these seemingly similar target groups and target behaviors.

Perceived COVID-19 susceptibility and preventive behaviors: moderating effects of social support in Italy and South Korea

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic hit Italy much harder than South Korea. As a way of explaining the different impact in the two countries, this study examines the moderating role of social support on the relationship between perceived susceptibility and preventive behaviors in the two countries.

METHODS

Surveys were conducted in South Korea (n = 1396) and Italy (n = 487) of participants aged 50 to 89 years.

RESULTS

South Koreans felt higher levels of perceived social support than their Italian counterparts. As would be expected, greater perceived susceptibility was associated with increased preventive behavior. Furthermore, a significant three-way interaction effect was found for perceived susceptibility, social support, and country. For Italians, a person who feels him/herself highly susceptible will increase preventive behaviors, if there is a lot of social support. On the other hand, for South Koreans, those with a low level of susceptibility perform more preventive measures than people with a high level of susceptibility if there is a lot of social support.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides insights into how cognitive factors, such as susceptibility and severity, as well as social and environmental factors can be taken into account, and the public be told the real risk and given behavioral guidelines when a pandemic is approaching. Given the critical role of social support as a coping mechanism in crisis situations, societies should mull over ways to increase emotional and instrumental support.

Health and weight attitudes of university recreation center leaders

Objective: Emerging research suggests weight-neutral approaches to health promotion are effective in supporting overall health, but they have been minimally adopted within physical activity (PA) contexts. This is concerning as research shows PA-related professionals can perpetuate weight stigma, which can disrupt PA participation and enjoyment. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine university recreation center (URC) leaders' attitudes toward health and weight. Participants and methods: One-hundred forty-one URC leaders completed the online Health and Weight Attitudes Scale. Results: Women and those who wanted to maintain weight had more positive attitudes toward not dieting than men (F (1,136)=5.090, p = 0.026, η_p² = 0.036) and those who wanted to lose weight (p = 0.015). Participants' open-ended responses showed they held several misconceptions about the health and weight relationship and about weight-neutral eating and PA messaging. Conclusion: Educating PA professionals on weight-neutral approaches could benefit effective and inclusive PA and health promotion in URCs.

Association between the Health Belief Model, Exercise, and Nutrition Behaviors during the COVID-19 Pandemic

INTRODUCTION

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected our nation's health further than the infection it causes. Physical activity levels and dietary intake have suffered while individuals grapple with the changes in behavior to reduce viral transmission. With unique nuances regarding the access to physical activity and nutrition during the pandemic, the constructs of Health Belief Model (HBM) may present themselves differently in nutrition and exercise behaviors compared to precautions implemented to reduce viral transmission studied in previous research. The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent of exercise and nutritional behavior change during the COVID-19 pandemic and explain the reason for and extent of this change using HBM constructs (perceived susceptibility, severity, benefit of action, and barriers to action).

METHODS

This study used a cross-sectional design to collect 206 surveys. This survey collected information on self-reported exercise and nutrition changes during the pandemic and self-reported levels of the HBM constructs.

RESULTS

Findings showed individuals with medium or high exercise behavior change had greater odds of increased HBM score than individuals with little to no exercise behavior change (OR = 1.117, 95% CI: 1.020-1.223, SE: 0.0464, p = 0.0175). There was no association between nutritional behavior change and HBM score (OR = 1.011, 95% CI: 0.895-1.142, p = 08646).

CONCLUSION

Individuals who reported a more drastic change in either exercise had greater odds of increased feelings of perceived susceptibility and severity related to COVID-19 and decreased perceived benefits and increased barriers to exercise. This relationship was not found regarding nutrition behavior change. These results encourage public health practitioners to understand how an individual's perceived feelings about a threat may affect exercise and nutritional behaviors.

Can Nutritional Status in Adults Be Influenced by Health Locus of Control?

The external health locus of control (HLC) is based on an assumption that obtained health results depend on the influences of external factors. As for the internal HLC-that is the effect of our own actions and capabilities. Little is known regarding how the HLC can influence body weight or the occurrence of visceral obesity. The study aimed to assess the relationship between the health locus of control and nutritional status in adults. The study included 744 adults (452 women, 292 men; 2.8% underweight, 43.8% normal weight, 29.7% overweight, and 23.7% obese). In addition to anthropometric measurement and socio-demographic data, the health locus of control, using the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale (MHLC) by Wallston K, Wallston B, and DeVellis R, was assessed. The percentage of subjects with an internal HLC did not differ significantly between obese, overweight, and normal-weight groups. However, the percentage of subjects with an external HLC-dependent on the impact of others-was significantly higher in both men and women with obesity than in corresponding overweight and normal-weight groups (p < 0.01). Yet, the percentage of subjects with an external HLC subject to the impact of chance was significantly higher among overweight and obese women than in those of normal weight (p < 0.05) only. Women with overweight or obesity, with external health locus of control, experienced both the impact of others and of chance more often than women with normal weight. However, men with overweight and with obesity more often had external health locus of control influenced only by others.

The Relationship between Personality Traits and Compliance with the COVID-19 Preventive Measures in Kosovo

The COVID-19 pandemic urged systematic restrictive measures in order to avoid the spread of the virus. Different countries applied different restrictive measures; however, their efficacy was vastly dependent on the willingness of the people to comply with them. How people perceived the pandemic yielded different adaptive behavior to preventative measures. In this direction, individual characteristics (i.e., personality) seem very important. The current study aimed to map a relationship between personality structure as postulated within the five-factor model of personality with the tendency to comply with preventive measures, as mediated by perceived stress and concerns over coronavirus. In a sample of 3252 adults, we found that the traits of openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness directly and positively predicted compliance. However, concerns over coronavirus partially but positively mediated the relationship between agreeableness and conscientiousness on compliance. Perceived stress, on the other hand, was not a significant mediator, although it was significantly and positively predicted by neuroticism but negatively by extraversion. These findings showed that different personality traits have different direct effects on compliance with preventative measures.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) knowledge, beliefs, and vaccine uptake among United States and international college students

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV) and HPV vaccine, college student's beliefs toward HPV, and HPV vaccine uptake between US and international college students studying in the US. Participants: The study was conducted using a sample (N = 588) of college students from a university in the South Central US. Methods: Study measures was derived from previously validated measures. Data were collected via an online survey using Qualtrics. Results: Significant differences were found in HPV awareness, HPV vaccine awareness, and HPV vaccine uptake between US and international college students. Conclusion: This study showed existing disparities between US and international college students regarding HPV and HPV vaccine awareness, and HPV vaccine uptake. College health centers can play a crucial role in raising awareness of HPV and HPV vaccination rates by organizing various intervention programs to reduce these disparities.

Toxic Habits and Well-Being Measures in Spanish Healthcare University Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic

BACKGROUND

Unhealthy lifestyles are strongly entrenched in healthcare universities and have sometimes been linked to stress or lack of sleep. This study investigated the prevalence of toxic habits (smoking, patterns of harmful alcohol use, and illicit drug use), stress levels, perceived health status, and sleep duration and assessed the connections between toxic habits and said well-being measures, as well as healthcare students' perception of the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on these health-related behaviors.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional study, healthcare students from Alfonso X University (Spain) completed a health survey composed of Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT-C), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), self-perceived health status, and the number of hours of sleep.

RESULTS

A total of 997 healthcare students completed the survey, of which 982 were analyzed. Being a smoker (32.2%) was associated with worse health status and insufficient sleep. Risk drinkers (33.2%) were associated with being female, and the consumption of cannabinoids (6.7%), with being male. These three toxic habits were related to each other. High levels of stress (28.2%) were correlated with worse ratings in the perception of health status (29.2%) and with insufficient sleep (45.8%), and all of them were associated with the female sex. Respectively, 49.3% and 44.2% of students recognized a worsening in their perception of stress and their sleep habits during the pandemic.

CONCLUSION

Healthcare universities must carry out health promotion programs for stress management, sleep habits, and unhealthy lifestyles.

Logic model development for the exercise is medicine-on campus initiative

One strategy to encourage college students to meet physical activity and public health guidelines is the Exercise is Medicine on Campus Initiative (EIM-OC), whose goal is to promote physical activity as a vital health sign within universities. To develop, implement, and evaluate the EIM-OC Initiative, it is critical to understand the mechanics of the program via a logic model. Objective: The objective is to present a conceptual logic model for EIM-OC Initiative implementation. Methods: Using an activities-approach framework, a logic model was developed using inputs, activities, outputs, and outcomes. Results: This logic model serves as a guide for the conceptual relationships within the EIM-OC Initiative. It was hypothesized that the EIM-OC Initiative would have an overarching outcome of improving physical activity levels in the university setting to promote overall community wellness and health. Conclusion: The authors anticipate this logic model will serve as a framework for other universities implementing EIM-OC.

Predictors of Health-Protective and Helping Behaviors during the Covid-19 Pandemic: The Role of Social Support and Resilience

The COVID -19 pandemic dramatically affected people's lives. In this study, we explored the role of social and personal factors underlying individuals' adaptive responses during the critical onset period of the outbreak. In particular, we tested two models on the mediating role of health-protective behaviors in the relationship between social support, resilience, and helping behavior. A sample of 1085 participants from Portugal and Brazil took part in an online survey during the first wave of the pandemic. First, through an Exploratory Factor Analysis of the health-protective behaviors to prevent contagion by the coronavirus, we identified two distinct dimensions, one aggregating active protective behaviors and the other as avoidant behaviors. Secondly, we found that resilience and active protective behavior sequentially mediated the relationship between social support and willingness to help. In addition, a multigroup analysis showed that this mediational process was similar in both countries. Given the wide range of social and individual factors that may predict prosocial behaviors, we highlight the role of social support on the intention to help through resilience and active protective behaviors.

Structural model of the relationship between physical activity and students’ quality of life: Mediating role of body mass index and moderating role of gender

Background

As a country’s future leaders and pioneers, University students must live with healthy habits. In order to achieve a healthy lifestyle, Physical activity and Quality of Life can serve as suitable indices to study. The purpose of the study was to clarify how physical activity (PA), Body mass index (BMI) and gender relate to the quality of life (QOL) of students of Medical Sciences University by using a structural equation model.

Methods

The research was a cross-sectional study. The number of participants was 225 students of the University. The participants answered three questionnaires, including Demographic, International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ short form), and Quality of Life Questionnaire (SF-12), BMI was calculated by anthropometric measures, as well. The Structural equation model (SEM) method was employed. The Fitness of the proposed pattern was measured using the following indexes: chi-square/degree of freedom ratio (CMIN/DF), Normed Fit Index (NFI), comparative fit index (CFI), the goodness of fit index (GFI), and standardized root mean squared residual (SRMR). In the analysis the significant level was considered as P < 0.05.

Results

PA (r = -0.726, P<0.001) and QOL (r = -0.405, P<0.001) have significantly inverse relationship with BMI, whereas the QOL and PA were proven to be positively related (r = 0.357, P<0.001). Moreover, the results signify gender as a moderator in the relationship between PA and QOL (Δχ² (10) = 19.903, P = 0.030) and also the mediatory role of BMI among students. BMI affects the QOL in men (P < 0.001, β = -0.307) more in compare to women women (P = 0.324, β = -0.158).

Conclusion

Study findings supported the research hypothesis. Gender exhibited moderating role in the relationship between PA and QOL, considering the mediating role of BMI.

College students' hope, body-esteem, motivation, and participation in exercise

Objectives: While many are aware of the benefits of exercise, there has been a decline in participation across all ages, with dramatic declines during adolescence/young adulthood. This study aimed to determine whether hope, body-esteem, and motivation to exercise contribute to exercise behavior among college students. Participants: Undergraduates (N = 104) were recruited through the psychology research pool and athletic department. Method: Participants completed a set of questionnaires measuring hope, motivation, body-esteem, and participation in exercise. Results: We performed a hierarchical regression to determine whether hope predicted exercise above the influence of motivation, body-esteem, and demographic factors. Our analysis revealed a significant model predicting exercise with hope and participation in collegiate athletics as significant predictors. Conclusions: The combination of health/enjoyment motivation, participation in collegiate athletics, body-esteem, and hope predicts exercise behavior among college students. Identifying that hope played a significant role is an intriguing finding and warrants continued research on hope in health.

The relationship between physical fitness and academic performance among Chinese college students

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to examine the relationship between physical fitness and academic performance, after controlling for potential confounds.

PARTICIPANTS

The sample comprised 2,324 college students representing three Chinese universities.

METHODS

Physical fitness was measured using the Chinese National Student Physical Fitness Standard; academic performance (ie, Grade Point Average) and lifestyle behaviors were assessed using questionnaires. Academic performance and overall physical fitness were used to divide participants into three categories: low, moderate, and high.

RESULTS

Several physical fitness indicators systematically differed across the three academic performance categories. Additionally, overall physical fitness was positively associated with academic performance, even after controlling for the effects of lifestyle behaviors; those who belonged to the high overall physical fitness group had lower odds ratios of low academic performance than those belonging to the low overall physical fitness group.

CONCLUSIONS

Poor academic performance was related to low overall physical fitness . The probability of having poor academic performance was significantly lower among students with high physical fitness than those with low physical fitness.

COVID-19 Vaccination and Intention to Vaccinate Among a Sample of College Students in New Jersey

Vaccines are critical for curtailing the COVID-19 pandemic and may represent an important tool for return to "normalcy" on college campuses in the Fall of 2021. The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent of vaccination coverage and intention to vaccinate among college students. College students (N = 457) enrolled in the Spring 2021 semester at a university in New Jersey completed a cross-sectional survey. The survey collected information on demographics, COVID-19 and vaccination history, knowledge levels and sources of COVID-19 vaccine information, and vaccine attitudes. Multivariable regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with vaccination, and the intention to vaccinate among non-vaccinated students. Results indicate that 23% (n = 105) of participants reported being vaccinated already. Among non-vaccinated students, 52.8% indicated their intention to receive the vaccine when it is made available to college students. Students who were health care workers (adjusted odds ratio, aOR = 4.17, p < 0.001), had a family member who had received a COVID-19 vaccine (aOR = 5.03, p < 0.001), exhibited greater positive attitudes regarding vaccination (aOR = 1.12, p < 0.001), and received a seasonal flu vaccine (aOR = 1.97, p < 0.05) were more likely to have received the COVID-19 vaccine. Among non-vaccinated students, those who discussed COVID-19 vaccine information with others (aOR = 5.38, p < 0.001), and exhibited more overall positive attitudes regarding vaccination (aOR = 2.69, p < 0.001), were more likely to indicate their willingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Findings of this study highlight the need for additional education and vaccine outreach aimed at promoting uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine among college students.

A Peer-Based Educational Intervention Effects on SARS-CoV-2 Knowledge and Attitudes among Polish High-School Students

To support high school students to develop knowledge they need to adhere to control measures during the pandemic, a peer-based educational intervention on SARS-CoV-2 was developed and its impact was evaluated. Multistage random sampling was used. The 50 min peer-based intervention was conducted by final year medical students. Baseline and post-intervention knowledge and attitudes were assessed. Significance was tested by McNemar's/Wilcoxon rank tests. Of 518 participants (mean age 17.8 years ± 0.43), 81.0% did not receive any school-based education on SARS-CoV-2. After intervention, the knowledge score improved from 65.2% to 81.6%, attitudes from 63.2% to 70.8% (both p < 0.0001). The effect size after the intervention compared to pre-intervention showed moderate improvement of knowledge, but not attitudes (d = 0.46 and d = 0.18, respectively). Pre- and post-intervention, females, students in non-science programs, living in cities < 250,000 inhabitants had lower knowledge, while fewer males, non-science program students, living in smaller cities presented positive attitudes. Before intervention, 67.0% students correctly named SARS-CoV-2 preventive methods and 73.6% were concerned COVID-19 is a serious disease; these improved after intervention (to 80.1% and 86.3%; p < 0.0001). The intervention was not very successful in increasing the intent to vaccinate for COVID-19 (pre-intervention 52.9%, post-intervention 56.4%; p < 0.007). Peer-based teaching for high school students can be effective in increasing SARS-CoV-2 knowledge and awareness. More efforts are needed to improve attitudes and enhance acceptance of vaccination against COVID-19.

Mind training, stress and behaviour-A randomised experiment

In this paper, we evaluate the effects of a psychological training, called Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) on stress and risk and time preferences. MBSR is a well-known psychological technique, which is believed to improve self-control and reduce stress. We conduct the experiment with 139 participants, half of whom receive the MBSR training, while the other half are asked to watch a documentary series, both over 4 consecutive weeks. Using a range of self-reported and physiological measures (such as cortisol measures), we find evidence that mindfulness training reduces perceived stress, but we only find weak evidence of effects on risk and inter-temporal attitudes.

Self-Compassion, Mindful Eating, Eating Attitudes and Wellbeing Among Emerging Adults

Mindful eating behavior and self-compassion have been individually shown to contribute to healthy eating. Evidence suggests that they may interact and that interaction may increase our understanding of eating behavior. The aim of the current study was to explore the relationship between mindful eating behavior, self-compassion, healthy/unhealthy weight, eating disorder and wellbeing in a sample of university students. An online survey using questionnaire data collection in a sample of 349 students (105 males and 244 females). Variables measured included body mass index (BMI), mindful eating behavior, eating attitudes, self-compassion and mental wellbeing. Regression and path analysis show mindful eating behavior and self-compassion to individually and interaction predict eating attitudes and wellbeing. BMI was shown to have a curvilinear relationship with mindful eating behavior, self-compassion and wellbeing with both the underweight and obese reporting lower self-compassion, less Mindful eating behavior, lower wellbeing and more likely to exhibit disordered eating. These results indicate that self-compassion and mindful eating behavior might be usefully targeted in interventions to prevent both obesity and eating disorder.

Evaluation of a Sexual Transmitted Infection Prevention Program Among University Students in Beira City Central Mozambique: A Study Protocol

Background: Unhealthy sexual behaviors, such as unprotected sexual intercourse and lack of using screening services increase cyclical transmission of sexually transmitted infections including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), especially among young adults. Hence health promotion programs can contribute to reduce the consequences, by changing (determinants of) these behaviors. Such interventions need to embrace a comprehensive approach and apply theory-and evidence-based methods. This article describes the protocol for a process and effect evaluation study of a sexually transmitted infection prevention program among university students in Beira city, central Mozambique.

Methods: The on-going program at Universidade Católica de Moçambique is described following the six steps of Intervention Mapping (IM), with a focus on the evaluation plan (i.e., the final step in IM). The details regarding previous steps in the protocol are briefly described as well, as they lay the foundation for the final step. The overall study will apply a hybrid type 1 approach by assessing the effectiveness of the intervention while gettering implementation. The process evaluation will apply qualitative and quantitative methods to gain insight in the context, reach, dose delivered, dose received and recruitment. Interviews with closed and open-ended questions will be conducted with program implementers and users. A quasi-experimental non-equivalent control group design is used to evaluate the effectiveness. A cohort of university students will be followed for 6 months. Self-administrated questionnaires will be used to collect data every 3 months.

Discussion: A combination of process and effect evaluation is proposed. This is a useful and fruitful procedure, since concurrent process evaluation can allow researchers to better interpret findings from the effect evaluation and understand how the intervention might replicate in similar contexts. We decided to follow the IM approach since, it is a theory-and evidence-based, systematic and detailed guide regarding what to do at every steps. A quasi-experimental non-equivalent control group design was chosen to fit the context of the study and generate outcomes with high external validity.

Study Registration: 004/CIBS/2020.

Examining intentions to engage in sun protective behaviors among Latino day laborers: An application of the theory of planned behavior

Background: The past two decades has revealed an unprecedented increasing incidence of skin cancer within the Latinx population. Although Latino day laborers (LDLs) are at heightened risk for developing skin cancer because of the outdoor work in which they engage, there is limited research examining their intentions to engage in sun protective behaviors (SPBs). Therefore, this study sought to assess the explanatory power of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) to identify attitudinal, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control factors associated with intentions to engage in SPB among LDLs.

Methods: This cross-sectional retrospective study consists of a non-random convenience,community-based, sample of 137 LDLs residing in Mississippi and Illinois. Data were collected using a self-report survey centered on health practices and sun-protective behaviors.

Results: Findings revealed that five significant factors shaped intentions to engage in SPBs, including barriers to engaging in SPBs (β =.30, P<0.001), benefits of engaging in SPBs (β =.27,P<0.001), education (β=0.20, P<0.01), and acculturation (β=0.18, P≤0.05). The independent variables tested in the model accounted for 42% of the change in intentions to engage in SPBs.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates TPB’s usefulness for predicting future intentions to engage in SPBs among LDLs. Moreover, the strongest factor associated with predicting intentions to engage in SPBs among LDLs was perceived behavioral control. Thus, since SPBs are malleable, emphasis is placed on implementing interventions for this population that promote intentions and address perceived behavioral control.

Customers response to online food delivery services during COVID-19 outbreak using binary logistic regression

This study aims to empirically measure the distinctive characteristics of customers who did and did not order food through Online Food Delivery services (OFDs) during the COVID-19 outbreak in India. Data are collected from 462 OFDs customers. Binary logistic regression is used to examine the respondents' characteristics, such as age, patronage frequency before the lockdown, affective and instrumental beliefs, product involvement and the perceived threat, to examine the significant differences between the two categories of OFDs customers. The binary logistic regression concludes that respondents exhibiting high-perceived threat, less product involvement, less perceived benefit on OFDs and less frequency of online food orders are less likely to order food through OFDs. This study provides specific guidelines to create crisis management strategies.

Characterizing Self-Reported Tobacco, Vaping, and Marijuana-Related Tweets Geolocated for California College Campuses

Introduction: College-aged youth are active on social media yet smoking-related social media engagement in these populations has not been thoroughly investigated. We sought to conduct an exploratory infoveillance study focused on geolocated data to characterize smoking-related tweets originating from California 4-year colleges on Twitter. Methods: Tweets from 2015 to 2019 with geospatial coordinates in CA college campuses containing smoking-related keywords were collected from the Twitter API stream and manually annotated for discussions about smoking product type, sentiment, and behavior. Results: Out of all tweets detected with smoking-related behavior, 46.7% related to tobacco use, 50.0% to marijuana, and 7.3% to vaping. Of these tweets, 46.1% reported first-person use or second-hand observation of smoking behavior. Out of 962 tweets with user sentiment, the majority (67.6%) were positive, ranging from 55.0% for California State University, Long Beach to 95.8% for California State University, Los Angeles. Discussion: We detected reporting of first- and second-hand smoking behavior on CA college campuses representing possible violation of campus smoking bans. The majority of tweets expressed positive sentiment about smoking behaviors, though there was appreciable variability between college campuses. This suggests that anti-smoking outreach should be tailored to the unique student populations of these college communities. Conclusion: Among tweets about smoking from California colleges, high levels of positive sentiment suggest that the campus climate may be less receptive to anti-smoking messages or adherence to campus smoking bans. Further research should investigate the degree to which this varies by campuses over time and following implementation of bans including validating using other sources of data.

Processes of a Transformation of Young Drivers' Responsibility for Health-Carpe Diem

Research most often deals with the relationship between risky behaviour on the road and other aspects of young adults’ lifestyle. It is rare that the sense of responsibility for one’s own life and health and for that of other people on the road is understood, due to the limitation of perceptual data. In this study, we researched 198 young adults (M = 19.75; SD = 1.11) using the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control, the Inventory of Health Behaviours, the Criteria of Health List and a student health survey. The chance of risky driving will increase by 50.7% among young adults as their understanding of health as a state increases. On the other hand, when young people feel that others are responsible for their lives, the likelihood of risky driving will drop by 6.4%. The hedonistic life orientation of a young adult had a significant impact on the results obtained which was connected with their understanding of health.

A mHealth intervention to preserve and promote ideal cardiovascular health in college students: Design and protocol of a cluster randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death globally. Seven health factors are associated with ideal cardiovascular health: being a non-smoker; not overweight; physically active; having a healthy diet; and normal blood pressure; fasting plasma glucose and cholesterol. Whereas approximately half of U.S. youth have ideal levels in at least 5 of the 7 components of cardiovascular health, this proportion falls to 16% by adulthood.

OBJECTIVE

We will evaluate whether the NUYou cardiovascular mHealth intervention is more effective than an active comparator to promote cardiovascular health during the transition to young adulthood.

METHODS

302 incoming freshmen at a midwest university will be cluster randomized by dormitory into one of two mHealth intervention groups: 1) Cardiovascular Health (CVH), addressing behaviors related to CVD risk; or 2) Whole Health (WH), addressing behaviors unrelated to CVD. Both groups will receive smartphone applications, co-designed with students to help them manage time, interact with other participants via social media, and report health behaviors weekly. The CVH group will also have self-monitoring features to track their risk behaviors. Cardiovascular health will be assessed at the beginning of freshman year and the end of freshman and sophomore years. Linear mixed models will be used to compare groups on a composite of the seven cardiovascular-related health factors.

SIGNIFICANCE

This is the first entirely technology-mediated multiple health behavior change intervention delivered to college students to promote cardiovascular health. Findings will inform the potential for primordial prevention in young adulthood.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

clinicaltrials.gov #NCT02496728.

Motivations for Treatment Engagement in a Residential Substance Use Disorder Treatment Program: A Qualitative Study

AIMS

The aim of this study was to explore perspectives on motivations for treatment engagement from substance use disorder (SUD) clients in a long-term residential rehabilitation program.

DESIGN AND METHODS

A convenience sample of 30 clients who were enrolled in a year-long SUD treatment program at a residential rehabilitation facility took part in in-depth interviews. Interview transcripts were analyzed using the directed content analysis approach.

RESULTS

Participant accounts indicated that their treatment engagement was motivated by factors that aligned with the six primary constructs of the Health Belief Model: (i) perceived susceptibility (eg, believing that their substance use required intervention and that they were prone to relapse), (ii) perceived severity (eg, substance use negatively impacted their health and harmed their close relationships), (iii) perceived benefits (eg, opportunities for a better life, reconnecting with family members and close friends, & avoiding legal consequences), (iv) perceived barriers (eg, the length of the treatment program), (v) cues to actions (eg, decisive moments, elements of the treatment program, & faith and spirituality), and (vi) self-efficacy in remaining abstinent (eg, treatment program provided them with skills and experiences to maintain long-term sobriety).

DISCUSSION

Our analysis indicates that participants' treatment engagement was linked to their beliefs regarding the severity of their substance use disorder, their treatment program's ability to help them avoid future relapse, and their own capability to act upon the strategies and resources provided by the treatment program. A theoretical understanding of these aspects can contribute to the future planning of precision interventions.

Effects of health beliefs, social support, and self-efficacy on sun protection behaviors among medical students: testing of an extended health belief model

Sun protection behaviors (SPB) are important modifiable risk factors for skin cancer. As the most common malignancies in the world, skin cancers account for significant morbidity, mortality, and economic burden. Physicians play a key role in educating patients about proper SPB. Medical education provides the foundation for physician understanding of SPB and future patient education. The Health Belief Model (HBM) is a theoretical model that offers constructs to help explain health behaviors. This cross-sectional study examined a convenience sample of 186 medical student to assess their engagement in SPB through the lens of the 6 HBM constructs and social support. Overall, we found engagement in SPB among our cohort to be low. About 70.4% report never using wide-brimmed hats and only 44.6% often or always use sunscreen. Hierarchical multiple regressions were performed in three blocks to analyze the relationship between the independent variables (HBM constructs and social support) and dependent variable (SPB) after controlling for the influence of demographic covariates. In our health constructs model, beliefs about susceptibility, benefits minus barriers, and self-efficacy were found to be significant predictors of engaging in SPB. Addition of social support in the final model did not significantly improve prediction of SPB engagement. These findings support use of educational programs based on HBM for the improvement of SPB among medical students.

Examining the Role of Childhood Adversity on Excess Alcohol Intake and Tobacco Exposure among US College Students

BACKGROUND

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are often associated with substance use behaviors such as drinking excess alcohol and tobacco use. Resilience may protect individuals from engaging in these maladaptive behaviors following ACEs. Objectives: We examined the associations between ACEs and excessive alcohol consumption, and ACEs and tobacco intake and exposure among diverse college students, and whether resilience buffered this relationship. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional online survey in October 2018 with students at a large Southern university to assess ACEs, levels of resilience, and students' health behaviors. We used the Adverse Childhood Experiences - International Questionnaire (ACE-IQ) and the Brief Resilience Scale. Logistic regression modeled the relationship between ACEs and students' substance use behaviors. We adjusted for demographics, other health behaviors, and emotional health and we tested resilience as a possible buffer. Results: Participants (n = 568) were in their early twenties, almost three-fourths were female. We had a racially/ethnically diverse sample. Over two-thirds had experienced 1-4 ACEs. ACE exposure was not associated with excess alcohol consumption but exhibited a consistent dose-response relationship in unadjusted and adjusted models. Moderate ACEs increased the odds of tobacco exposure by 227% (OR: 3.27, 95% CI: 1.17-9.11) in adjusted models. Resilience was unrelated to either behavior. Black respondents had significantly reduced odds for both substance use outcomes. Tobacco exposure and excess alcohol intake were comorbid behaviors. Conclusion: Childhood adversity was a significant predictor for tobacco exposure among diverse US college students. Resilience did not buffer this relationship. Age, gender, and race/ethnicity were differentially associated with substance use.

Predictors of health behaviours among Indian college students: an exploratory study

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to understand the association between health behaviours of diet, physical activity, smoking cigarettes, alcohol consumption, safe sex and sleep quality with demographic (e.g. age, gender) and psychological (i.e. stress, self-esteem and sense of coherence) factors in Indian residential college students.

Design/methodology/approach

Students studying for Bachelor of Technology at residential colleges in India were invited to complete an online questionnaire regarding their health behaviours, demographics and psychological variables. Each health behaviour was regressed onto demographic and psychological factors to determine which of them were associated with performing each behaviour.

Findings

There was no clear pattern of predictors for the health behaviours overall. Self-esteem was related to healthy diet, being single was related to adequate sleep, higher parental income was related to safer sex and being older was related to more alcohol use and safer sex.

Research limitations/implications

This study revealed that health education efforts may need to be designed for specific behaviours and correlates among Indian college students. Interventions regarding (1) healthy eating should target students with lower self-esteem, (2) sleep should target students in a relationship and (3) safer sex should target younger students and those from less affluent backgrounds.

Originality/value

This research is one of the first attempts to study the predictors of health behaviours among Indian college students. The study highlighted that psychological factors (e.g. self-esteem) and demographic factors (e.g. relationship status, parental income, age) affect different health behaviours. These findings can help health educators to design tailored interventions and aid in health education and promotion among Indian college students.

Truth® ads, receptivity, and motivation to use or quit tobacco among college students

Objective: Examine receptivity and motivation to use/quit tobacco among college students after viewing Truth ads. Participants: Random sample of 10,000 college students invited to complete online survey February 2016 (8.5% response rate). Methods: Quasi-experimental. Participants (N = 854) watched four ads and answered survey items for each ad. Results: Students rated ad receptivity and decreased motivation to use tobacco higher for the Catmageddon ad than the others. Regardless of ad, men and current cigarette smokers reported lower receptivity. Younger age was associated with lower motivation to use tobacco for all ads. Tobacco users reported greater motivation to quit with the Catmageddon ad. Conclusions: College students were receptive to the Truth ads, and many indicated lower motivation to use tobacco. Men, older college students, and current cigarette smokers were less receptive to the ads, reinforcing the need to develop tailored campaigns to reach these subgroups.

Characteristics of and Factors Influencing College Nursing Students' Willingness to Utilize mHealth for Health Promotion

More than half of practicing nurses have suboptimal physical or mental health. Impaired health is associated with a 76% higher likelihood that nurses will make medical errors. Improving the health habits of nursing students is essential to shaping and sustaining health prior to joining the workforce. Technology such as mobile health applications holds great promise in facilitating behavioral change and encouraging healthy habits in nursing students. Identifying the predictors of willingness to use mobile health is essential to creating mobile health applications that will engage nursing students and promote sustainable usage. Evaluation of psychological, attitudinal, and health-related correlates of mobile health can highlight predictors of willingness to use mobile health, which can influence nursing students' utilization and long-term engagement with mobile health applications. Analysis of these correlates shows that psychological attributes, such as hope, play a role in the willingness to use and may facilitate engagement in the utilization of a mobile health application. Development of a mobile health application that increases hope and helps establish healthy habits may enable nursing students to remain healthy throughout their lives, creating a new generation of happier, healthier nurses and, ultimately, improving safety for patients under their care.

Sun Protection Behaviors of State Park Workers in the Southeastern USA

BACKGROUND

Due to the nature of their work, state park workers receive substantial exposure to sunlight, putting them at an increased risk of developing skin cancer. Increased use of sun protection behaviors can reduce this risk.

OBJECTIVES

Using the health belief model (HBM) as a theoretical framework, the purpose of this study was to assess factors associated with sun protection behaviors among state-park workers.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, a convenience sample of participants were recruited from 23 state parks in the Southeastern USA to complete a self-administered questionnaire based on the constructs of the HBM.

RESULTS

The sample comprised 310 state park workers. The majority of participants were non-Hispanic White (61.6%), male (63.5%), and were aged 39.56 (±13.97) years on average. The average duration of sun exposure during the workday was reported as 3.51 h (±1.88). Nearly 12% of the participants reported that their workplace had a sun-safety policy and ~10% reported receiving sun-safety training at their workplace. The majority of participants reported that they did not sufficiently use sun protection methods. Factors associated with sun protection behaviors included the HBM constructs of perceived benefits outweighing perceived barriers (standardized coefficient = 0.210, P = 0.001), self-efficacy (standardized coefficient = 0.333, P < 0.001), and cues to action (standardized coefficient = 0.179, P = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

Future research should explore the barriers to adopting and enforcing sun-safety policies in the workplace. HBM appears to be efficacious in explaining sun protection behaviors among state park workers. HBM constructs should be considered in future interventions aimed at increasing sun protection behaviors in this population.

Oral health among student veterans: Effects on mental and physical health

Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore differences in oral health among students by military service status in postsecondary settings. Participants: Secondary data were obtained from the American College Health Association's 2011-2014 National College Health Assessment II. Method: Demographic characteristics of the study sample were explored by calculating frequencies and percentages by military service status. Research questions were explored with maximum likelihood multiple logistic regression. Results: Service member and veteran students are at greater risk for neglecting health behaviors associated with positive oral health, including that they were less likely to get dental exams and that those who deployed in the past were the least likely to be practicing good oral health. Conclusions: The results suggest that improving oral health will contribute to improving health and mental health outcomes in this population, and provide important information for health specialists working with service members and veterans on college campuses.

Prevalence of past-year mental disorders and its correlates among Chinese international students in US higher education

Objective: This study examined the prevalence of past-year mental disorders and its correlates among Chinese international students in US higher education. Participants: A total of 222 Chinese international students participated in the study. Methods: Participants were recruited via a social marketing campaign and participated in an online survey. Results: The majority of the participants were female (65.3%) and graduate students (84.7%) with a mean age of 23.75 years. Of the sample, 77.9 and 74.3% reported having experienced depression and anxiety symptoms in the past year, respectively. Predictors of a higher past-year global mental health status were: not having a steady partner; being more likely to return China after graduation; a higher level of stress about the returning plan; and, a lower rating of cultural humility of key college/university personnel. Conclusions: These results suggest that mental health is a pressing issue facing Chinese international students and correlated with other psychosocial factors.

Comparison of Factors Associated with Disordered Eating between Male and Female Malaysian University Students

Disordered eating is prevalent among university students, especially females. Whilst literature suggests that factors associated with disordered eating may differ according to gender, such an association has not been studied in Malaysia. This cross-sectional study aims to compare factors associated with disordered eating between male and female university students. A total of 716 university students (male: 27.4%; female: 72.6%) were recruited in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, Malaysia. All participants completed a set of self-administered questionnaires and their body weight and height were recorded. About one in five of the university students (20.3%) were found to have disordered eating. There were more female students (22.9%) disordered eating compared to males (13.3%, χ² = 8.16, p < 0.05). In male students (β = 0.228, p < 0.01), depressive symptoms were the only significant predictor for disordered eating. In females, the strongest predictor was depressive symptoms (β = 0.214, p < 0.001), followed by body size satisfaction (β = -0.145, p < 0.01) and body appreciation (β = -0.101, p < 0.05). These findings suggest that there are gender differences in the factors associated with disordered eating among Malaysian university students. Intervention programmes that address disordered eating should take into account these sex differences and its contributing factors.

Perceived Social Support from Significant Others among Binge Drinking and Polyconsuming Spanish University Students

Sense of acceptance is conceived as a central component of perceived social support and is thought to be a key resilience factor for adjustment during transition to university. The current study examines how a binge drinking pattern of alcohol consumption and the co-consumption of binge drinking and cannabis in first-year university students are related to perceived acceptance from family, mother, father, and friends. The study sample consisted of 268 women and 216 men, of average age 18.25 years (SE = 0.01), enrolled in the first year of different degree courses at the University of Santiago de Compostela. Participants were classified in three groups (control, binge drinking, polyconsuming) on the basis of the Timeline Followback for alcohol and cannabis. Perceived sense of acceptance was measured using the Perceived Acceptance Scale. Analysis of the data revealed that perceived acceptance was lower in polyconsuming students than in the binge drinking and control groups (p < 0.05; with η2 ranging between 0.009 and 0.020). A curvilinear relationship between binge drinking and perceived acceptance from friends was identified. Social support should be considered in future investigations and interventions as a vulnerability marker for detrimental consequences of substance use and risk of consumption disorders, as well as adolescent maladjustment.

Sexual Behaviors and Health Practices Among Student Service Members and Veterans

The purpose of the study was to determine whether veteran students and non-veteran students differed in their sexual behaviors and health practices and, furthermore, whether or not those differences were gender specific. Demographic characteristics of the study sample were explored by calculating frequencies and percentages by military service status. Research questions were explored with maximum likelihood multiple logistic regression. Results showed that student veterans were more likely than non-veteran students to have sex with multiple partners, with males and transgender students more likely than females to report multiple sexual partners. Student veterans were more likely than non-veterans to perform a self-examination for either breast cancer or testicular cancer, with transgender students more likely than females to report having engaged in a self-examination. Student veterans were also more likely than non-veterans to have been vaccinated against HPV or Hepatitis B, with male students more likely than females to have been vaccinated. Furthermore, transgender student veterans were less likely than female veterans to have been vaccinated. Finally, male student veterans were more likely than female veterans to report an STI-related doctor visit, with transgender student veterans more likely than female veterans to report an STI-related doctor visit. College campuses are increasingly implementing student veteran-specific programs and services; however, little if any research specifically has explored ways in which safety and health can be promoted within university settings. We recommend that institutions of higher education make concerted efforts to promote safety and health among its student veteran population.

Use of Wearable Technology and Social Media to Improve Physical Activity and Dietary Behaviors among College Students: A 12-Week Randomized Pilot Study

College students demonstrate poor physical activity (PA) and dietary behaviors. We evaluated the feasibility of a combined smartwatch and theoretically based, social media-delivered health education intervention versus a comparison on improving college students' health behaviors/outcomes. Thirty-eight students (28 female; Xage = 21.5 ± 3.4 years) participated in this two-arm, randomized 12-week pilot trial (2017-2018). Participants were randomized into: (a) experimental: Polar M400 use and twice-weekly social cognitive theory- and self-determination theory-based Facebook-delivered health education intervention; or (b) comparison: enrollment only in separate, but content-identical, Facebook intervention. Primary outcomes pertained to intervention feasibility. Secondary outcomes included accelerometer-estimated PA, physiological/psychosocial outcomes, and dietary behaviors. Intervention adherence was high (~86%), with a retention of 92.1%. Participants implemented health education tips 1-3 times per week. We observed experimental and comparison groups to have 4.2- and 1.6-min/day increases in moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), respectively, at six weeks-partially maintained at 12 weeks. In both groups, similarly decreased body weight (experimental = -0.6 kg; comparison = -0.5 kg) and increased self-efficacy, social support, and intrinsic motivation were observed pre- and post-intervention. Finally, we observed small decreases in daily caloric consumption over time (experimental = -41.0 calories; comparison = -143.3). Both interventions were feasible/of interest to college students and demonstrated initial effectiveness at improving health behaviors/outcomes. However, smartwatch provision may not result in an additional benefit.

The relationship between self-efficacy and some demographic and socioeconomic variables among Iranian Medical Sciences students

PURPOSE

Self-efficacy not only concentrates on specialty and competence but also considers the individual beliefs about what is obtainable. This study aimed to determine the effect of demographic and socioeconomic variables on self-efficacy status in students of Babol University of Medical Sciences.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was performed on 350 students of Babol University of Medical Sciences in 2016. The clustering-systematic random multi-stage sampling method was used for sampling. Data were collected using two demographic and socioeconomic status questionnaires as well as a General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE). The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software version 18 at a significance level of P≤0.05.

RESULTS

The mean age of students was 21.37±2.28 years, and most participants were female (58%). The highest number of students (65.7%) studied at the bachelor level. The students' mean total self-efficacy score was 61.08±8.67 and ranged between 25 and 82. There was a significant statistical relationship between self-efficacy index and variables such as family income, school, and grade. The highest positive relationship was observed in proper family income and the mean grade was higher than 16 (P≤0.001). Students in Rehabilitation and Paramedical Schools had lower self-efficacy compared to medical and paramedical students.

CONCLUSION

Students' self-efficacy is dependent on various socioeconomic and educational factors such as family income, academic grade, academic year, and school; so recognizing these factors can play an important and effective role in improving students' academic achievement. Therefore, it is recommended to use effective educational interventions in colleges with students' active role in different fields in order to promote students' self-efficacy and improve their self-esteem and self-confidence.

Toward total student health: A qualitative pilot study

Objective: Colleges should aim to cultivate healthy behaviors among students by addressing alterations in wellness students view as important. The purpose of this study was to determine the self-perceived wellness-related concerns and behaviors of college students. Participants: Thirty-seven undergraduate students participated in this study between January and March 2017. Methods: Focus groups served as a data collection method. Groups were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Directed and conventional approaches to data analyses were employed. Results: Participants expressed concern regarding four campus wellness topics: nutrition, economics, mental health, and campus safety. Participants offered solutions for improving campus wellness, representing a fifth theme. Conclusions: Health concerns for college students and realistic solutions to address concerns were identified across focus groups. Overall, students cared about their own health, as well as the well-being of other students. Future directions include conducting a Web-based survey among students to assess prevalence and impact of select health and wellness topics.

Trends in Fast-food Consumption among Kuwaiti Youth

BACKGROUND

We assessed fast-food consumption including frequency, type, and reasons among college students from the Kuwait University, and whether there were any key sex differences.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January-March 2016 with 421 students (297 women, mean age = 20.99 ± 3.14 years). Students completed self-administered fast-food questionnaires and weight and height measurements were obtained.

RESULTS

Most (81.4%) consumed fast food more than twice per week and more men than women were overweight or obese (54.8% vs. 38.7%, respectively; P = 0.002); however, there were no differences in the fast-food frequency per body mass index or sex. Taste was the most reported motivator to consume fast food (46.7%) and women were significantly more likely to value taste as compared to men (49.8% vs. 38.9%, respectively; P = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Fast food is a key part of college students' diet in Kuwait; therefore, students should be educated on the negative effects of frequent fast-food consumption. University health promotional activities should include nutrition education on healthier fast-food options and how to prepare easy-to-cook meals at home.