Factors Influencing the Health Behaviors of International
Students at a University
Grace K Lartey1, Sandeep Mishra1,
Divine E Odonwodo2, Chitalu Chitalu1, Andrew Chafatelli3
1Department of Public Health, Western Kentucky University, 1906 College
Heights Blvd # 11082, Bowling Green, KY 42101
2Unity Health System, 1555 Long Pond Road, Rochester, NY 14626
33716 Lakeridge Pass, Nashville, TN 37214
*For
Correspondence:
Tel:
1-270-745-3941
Fax:
1-270-745-4437
E-mail:
grace.lartey@wku.edu
Received:
08-Apr-09 Revised:
30-Apr-09 Accepted:
01-May-09
International Journal of Health Research,
June
2009; 2(2):
131-138 (e224p27-34)
Original
Research Article
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.
Keywords:
Exercise;
International students; Health care services; Health
promotion; Nutrition.
