Health and sexual behaviour among exchange students
Carina Petersson1, Ulla Peterson1, Katarina Swahnberg1
1Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Linnaeus University, Sweden.
Scandinavian Journal of Public Health
|August 28, 2016
Summary
Exchange students reported good health but engaged in risky sexual behaviors, with many not recalling STI prevention information. This highlights a need for improved sexual health education and resources for students abroad.
Area of Science:
- Global Health
- Sexual Health
- Student Health
Background:
- International exchange programs offer unique opportunities but also pose health risks.
- Understanding the sexual health behaviors of exchange students is crucial for targeted interventions.
- Preventive measures against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are vital for this demographic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the health status and sexual behaviors of exchange students.
- To assess the uptake of preventive efforts regarding HIV/STI and safer sex prior to departure.
- To identify gaps in current preventive strategies for students undertaking exchange studies.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional web-based survey was administered to outgoing exchange students.
- Data collected included information on sexual behavior, self-esteem, and psychological well-being.
- Descriptive and analytical statistical methods were employed for data analysis.
Main Results:
- 136 students participated; most reported good health, high self-esteem, and psychological well-being.
- Nearly half engaged in sex with a new partner, with 87% exhibiting sexually risky behavior.
- While 61% received preventive information, no significant difference was found between those with and without risky behaviors.
Conclusions:
- Exchange students generally perceive their health positively and receive some pre-departure information on HIV/STI prevention.
- A significant proportion of students engage in sexually risky behavior, indicating a need for more effective and memorable preventive strategies.
- Students with risky behaviors expressed a desire for accessible resources like free condoms and sexual health clinics.
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