Evolution of quality of life and health-related behaviors among Spanish university students

At the beginning of their academic studies (testing phase), the quality of life and certain health-related behaviors were evaluated. Four years later (retest phase), they were reevaluated. Between the two evaluation periods, a health promotion (HP) program was applied. The battery of instruments included measures: health-related quality of life (HRQOL), alcoholic and nicotine dependence, eating habits, physical activity, and sexual behaviors. It also included a number of sociodemographic data. The results show that, in general, the students reported adequate levels of HRQOL, and there were no important differences between the two evaluation moments. Regarding dietary behavior, no significant changes were detected in the pattern of adherence to the Mediterranean diet, which remained at an average level of adequacy. On the contrary, significant decreases were detected in relation to alcohol and tobacco dependence as well as significant increases in physical activity levels. Lastly, with regard to sexual behavior, although certain aspects of improvement were perceived, there is a need to increase awareness of the systematic use of condoms. In conclusion, this study provides relevant information that will serve as a starting point for monitoring changes in health behaviors and for the design and implementation of HP actions directed at university students.