International Journal of Health Research
Volume 2, Issue 2, 2009, Pages 131-138

Factors influencing the health behaviors of international students at a university (Article)

Lartey G.K. , Mishra S. , Odonwodo D.E. , Chitalu C. , Chafatelli A.
  • a Department of Public Health, Western Kentucky University, 1906 College Heights Blvd # 11082, Bowling Green, KY 42101, United States
  • b Department of Public Health, Western Kentucky University, 1906 College Heights Blvd # 11082, Bowling Green, KY 42101, United States
  • c Unity Health System, 1555 Long Pond Road, Rochester, NY 14626, United States
  • d Department of Public Health, Western Kentucky University, 1906 College Heights Blvd # 11082, Bowling Green, KY 42101, United States
  • e 3716 Lakeridge Pass, Nashville, TN 37214, United States

Abstract

Purpose: Each year, college campuses in America welcome an increasing and diverse population of international students. While the health status of these students is as diverse as the countries they come from, the shared experience of coming from different cultures, different backgrounds and different systems could lead to differences in health behavior. This study aimed to identify key patterns in nutrition, exercise and use of health care services and make recommendations for health promotion interventions. Methods: Online questionnaires were distributed to all international students enrolled in classes for the Spring 2007. Results: The majority of international students believed healthy behaviors were important: good nutrition habits (91%); regular exercise (74%); and use of health care services (60%). Forty-four percent of the students reported they never exercise and 56% reported not to have used any health care services within the past year. Conclusion: Although international students of Western Kentucky University, USA believe in healthy behaviours, majority often do not use the health care services. University wellness programs should be designed to identify target areas for health promotion interventions among international students. In addition, orientation programs provided to these students should be comprehensive and must include perceived academic, health, social and cultural issues and how to overcome them.

Author Keywords

International students Exercise health care services Health promotion nutrition

Index Keywords

Asian health promotion exercise human Health Behavior health service weight control United States cardiovascular disease school health service male female circulation Article health care utilization nutrition adult weather medical student
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-77953416126&partnerID=40&md5=df830080cf2c980ff71e82120a195783
ISSN: 15969819
Cited by: 2
Original Language: English