Implementation of Principles of a Healthy Lifestyle by Contemporary Russians from Different Socio-Demographic Groups

Abstract

Introduction: Despite all significant efforts taken by the government, the issue of a healthy lifestyle remains highly relevant for the Russian population. Objective: To assess changes in behavioral practices of Russian people from various socio-demographic groups in terms of commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Methods: The main source of empirical information was the Russian sociological survey conducted on April 17–26, 2023 in 29 regions of the Russian Federation. The sample consisted of 1,516 people aged 18 years and older who were interviewed at their place of residence. The results were compared with the findings of previous surveys of the same design. Result: The study has demonstrated a decrease in the proportion of Russians who believe that they lead a healthy lifestyle (from 63.7 % in 2021 to 56.2 % in 2023). At the same time, only 13 % of the respondents were found to adhere to basic principles of a healthy lifestyle. Male sex, having no higher education, and low income were associated with a poor commitment to the latter. We have noted a rising trend in the prevalence of smoking among young people. In the group of 18–24-year-olds, we observed a 1.5-fold increase in the proportion of smokers over the previous year related to the growing popularity of vaping. We have also established an increase in consumption of energy drinks (from 16.6 % in 2013 to 22.8 % in 2023), especially among young people aged 18–24 (53.2 %). Only 27.2 % of the respondents under 40 having children reported regular physical activity and/or sports compared to a similar group of citizens without children (40.2 %). Conclusion: Recommendations given based on the survey results are related to the importance of improving directions in social policy that promote commitment to a healthy lifestyle taking into account the needs of representatives of different socio-demographic groups.