Healthy Life Skills and Related Factors Among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study in İstanbul, Turkey

Abstract

Abstract Background:Chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of global deaths. Unhealthy lifestyle choices contribute significantly to the development of NCDs. University students, in particular, are considered a high-risk population for NCDs due to the transitional phase they experience. Adopting and maintaining healthy behaviors during this period is crucial for their overall well-being and future health outcomes. Aims:This study was conducted to determine healthy life skills in university students. Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted at a university in Istanbul. A questionnaire measuring healthy life skills was administered. Data were analyzed using various statistical tests, including chi-squared tests, t-tests, Mann-Whitney U test, one-way ANOVA test, univariate, and regression analysis. The significance level for all statistical tests was set at p < 0.05. Results:A total of 547 students participated in the study. The mean age of the participants was 21.6±2.9 years, with 51.4% male and 48.6% female students. The average score for healthy life skills was 63.5 out of 84. Significant differences were found in the scores based on marital status, economic income, social security insurance coverage, and educational grade. Students who reported alcohol and smoking consumption had lower scores. Conclusion:The study revealed that university students in Istanbul possess a satisfactory level of healthy life skills. By providing social support, such as expanding the coverage of social security insurance and establishing conducive educational environments, while also paying attention to the influence of peers on students, we can contribute to the development of healthy life skills in university students.