[The lifestyles of university students and their interest in campus health promotion. A cross-sectional study].
BACKGROUND
Universities are increasingly interested in providing a learning and living environment conducive to the health and well-being of students and staff. In Denmark, however, little is known about the determinants of health in the student population. The purpose of this survey was to study students' lifestyles and their well-being and to identify their health promotion needs with respect to the university environment.


METHODS
Students of the University of Southern Denmark (N=548, response rate 92.3%) were surveyed using a standardized self-administered questionnaire containing questions on socio-demographic issues, health awareness, use of health services, health behaviours, well-being at the university and interest in health promotion programmes and policies.


RESULTS
The majority of students reported a high level of health awareness (79.8%), had not visited a doctor during the previous six months (70.8%) and had never had psychotherapy (84.3%). The rate of daily smokers was comparatively low (16.7%), only 7.1% of respondents were physically inactive and the vast majority (93.7%) had a good social network. However, 29.1% reported frequent alcohol consumption. Students showed overall high satisfaction with the study environment. Their interest in health promotion was highest with regard to non-smoking policies.


CONCLUSIONS
Danish university students are highly satisfied with their study conditions and lead a relatively healthy lifestyle. However, campus policies and programmes should target the high level of alcohol consumption among students.
Stock
Christiane
C
Syddansk Universitet, Institut for Sundhedstjenesteforskning, Forskningsenheden for Sundhedsfremme, Esbjerg. cstock@health.sdu.dk
Larsen
Nønne Maalø
NM
D000328:Adult; D000428:Alcohol Drinking / Q000009:adverse effects; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003718:Denmark; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D012307:Risk Factors; D012737:Sex Factors; D012907:Smoking / Q000009:adverse effects; D012944:Social Support; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires