Lifestyle behavior changes from high school to freshman year: An international longitudinal study

Purpose: To examine lifestyle behavior changes among college freshman students in Mainland China (China), Taiwan, Thailand, and United States.

Used data: 1441 freshman students from China, Taiwan, Thailand and United States were assessed in the beginning and the end of the fall semester.

Methods: Lifestyle behaviors, such as dietary behavior, physical activity, tobacco usage, alcohol consumption and sleep habit, were assessed by questionnaires. High school lifestyle behaviors were assessed in the beginning of the fall semester, while lifestyle behaviors in college were assessed by the end of the fall semester. ANOVA, t-test and regression models were used to identify significant differences and associations.

Results: Overall, the lifestyle of college students put them at the increased risk of chronic disease. All college students reported drinking significantly more alcohol after entering college. Significant differences in lifestyle behaviors were observed between students from China, Taiwan, Thailand, or United States. After entering college, students in China, Taiwan and Unite States reported consuming significantly less fruits and vegetables; students in China and United States reported participating in significantly less moderate or vigorous physical activity; students in China, Thailand and United States. reported using more tobacco; and Asian students reported sleeping significantly better while the American students reported sleeping worse.

Recommendations: All universities should be aware of the importance of promoting healthy lifestyle among college students, prevent alcohol and tobacco consumptions, and promote nutrition and physical activity. Priorities should be given to different topics and strategies, based on the specific needs of the local students.