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Results from the 1995 National College Health Risk Behavior Survey
K A Douglas1, J L Collins, C Warren
1Division of Adult and Community Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA.
Journal of American College Health : J of ACH
|September 1, 1997
Summary
Many US college students engage in risky behaviors like excessive drinking, drunk driving, and marijuana use, increasing their risk for negative health outcomes. These findings highlight the need for targeted health interventions in higher education settings.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Behavior Research
- Epidemiology
Background:
- College students exhibit unique health risk behaviors.
- Understanding these behaviors is crucial for preventing adverse health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze health risk behaviors among US college and university undergraduates.
- To identify prevalent behaviors that increase the likelihood of adverse health outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the 1995 National College Health Risk Behavior Survey.
- Analyzed behaviors including alcohol consumption, drunk driving, smoking, marijuana use, condom use, weight status, and physical activity.
- Data were stratified by gender, age, race/ethnicity, and institution type.
Main Results:
- 34% of students consumed excessive alcohol; 27% engaged in drunk driving.
- 31% had a history of regular smoking; 49% had used marijuana.
- 30% reported condom use during last intercourse; 21% were overweight.
- 38% participated in vigorous physical activity regularly.
Conclusions:
- Significant proportions of college students engage in behaviors detrimental to their health.
- These findings underscore the need for health promotion and risk reduction strategies in higher education.
- Data can inform interventions to mitigate risks associated with leading causes of mortality and morbidity in college populations.