A comparison of two HRAs for use in the university classroom

Current interest in health and wellness combined with the proliferation of Health Risk Appraisals (HRAs) has made classroom use of such instruments increase rapidly in recent years. This study compared two HRAs in terms of appraised age, attainable age, the list of positive lifestyle factors for reinforcement, the list of lifestyle factors to be changed, and the variables of desirable weight and blood pressure as well as observed differences in display and unique comment characteristics. One hundred and thirty-three students at a large southeastern university comprised the sample. Though no significant differences were found in appraised age or attainable age, significant differences existed in the number of positive lifestyle changes listed, number of suggested lifestyle changes to be made by students, and several observable differences in display including graphics and tables. Implications for health educators are noted.