The Trends in health behaviour of the first-year students from Kaunas universities, 2000 - 2017

Abstract

Background First-year university students are exposed to different factors affecting their lifestyle. The aim of the study was to evaluate the trends in health behaviour of first-year students from four Kaunas universities over 17 years. Methods The study was carried out in 2000, 2010 and 2017. In total, 689, 739 and 1062 randomly selected first-year students participated (response rates >90%). During the lectures, participants filled in the anonymous questionnaire that included information on nutrition, physical activity, harmful habits, height, and weight. Results The reduction in daily smoking was observed: from 30.2% in 2000 to 18.4% in 2017 among males and from 21.1% to 15.9% among females, respectively. The proportion of male students drinking alcohol at least once a week declined from 62.7% in 2000 to 31.6% in 2017 and the proportion of females - from 41.5% to 27.3%, respectively. There was an increase in the proportion of students who have tried or are taking drugs: from 15.9% in 2000 to 27.8% in 2017 among males and from 4.8% to 18.8% among females, respectively. The changes in the nutrition habits of the students were observed: the proportion of students who consumed red meat every day decreased (up to 35.6% in 2017). In 2017, more students consumed cereals, fresh fruits and vegetables every day and fewer sweets, confectionery and soft drinks at least once a week than in 2000. There was a decline in meantime students spent sitting as well as in the average duration of the sleep. The proportion of students who take part in sports activities has increased by 17.1%. However, the prevalence of overweight and obesity increased from 11.7% in 2000 to 23.7% in 2017 among males, and from 4.2% to 9.0% among females, respectively. Conclusions Over 17 years, most health behaviours of the first-year students have changed in a positive direction; however [...].