CC BY
28э
2013
li
Health attitudes of the female students from olsztyn, poland - the physical activity, addictions and the knowledge about health behaviors
Podstawski Robert ', Gornik Katarzyna2, Kolankowska Ewelina3, Boraczynski Michal4, Boraczynska Sandra4
Department of Physical Education and Sport, University of Warmia & Mazury in Olsztyn1 Faculty of Geosciences, Chair of Recreation, University of Szczecin2 Faculty of Technical Sciences, Chair of Machines and Separation Processes, University of Warmia & Mazury in Olsztyn3 Department of Physical Education, Jozef Rusiecki Olsztyn University College4
Annotation:
Efforts to improve the health of the population are now focused on promoting healthy lifestyle, improve living conditions and to reduce mortality. Health education activities include
regular physical activity, optimal nutrition, reduce addictions and stress. The purpose of the survey conducted among 672 first-year female students at the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn (Poland) was to determine the attitudes of young women towards a healthy lifestyle.
Using anonymous survey
questionnaire asked students
about the form of physical activity, nutrition, the presence of stressful situations, the use of drugs, such as alcohol and cigarettes, and the interest in deepening knowledge of public health.
The majority of students have participated only in obligatory physical education classes in high school and college. They considered that physical activity during the studies should be voluntary. Only 4.24% of students were total abstinence from alcohol, but 79.10% was nonsmoking. Many of the women declared the need to change the diet, reducing alcohol intake and give up smoking habit. The students felt that stress connected with attending university is unavoidable, and thus revealed an interest in reducing and limiting mental tension. Despite their young age, students expressed interest in topics such as: first aid course, nutrition, sexuality, and pregnancy problems.
Key words:
health attitudes, university, female students, Poland.
Подставки Роберт, Горник Катерина, Коланковска Евелина, Борачински Ми-хал, Борачинска Сандра. Установки, інтереси і думки студенток Ольштина (Польща) до свого здоров'я - фізична активність, наркоманія і знання про здоровий спосіб життя. Зусилля щодо поліпшення здоров'я населення в даний час зосереджені на пропаганді здорового способу життя, поліпшення умов життя і зниження смертності. Діяльність в області здоров'язберігаючої освіти включає регулярну фізичну активність, оптимальне харчування, зниження залежностей і стресів. Метою опитування, проведеного серед 672 першокурсників студенток в університеті Вармії і Мазур в Ольштині (Польща), є виявлення ставлення дівчат до здорового способу життя.
У дослідженні використовувалося анонімне анкетування студентів про форми фізичної активності, харчуванню, наявності стресових ситуацій, вживання наркотиків, таких як алкоголь і сигарети, а також зацікавленість у поглибленні знань про здоров'я населення.
Встановлено, що більшість студентів брали участь тільки в обов'язкових уроках фізичної культури в середній школі і коледжі. Вони вважають, що фізична активність під час навчання має бути добровільною. Встановлено, що тільки 4,24% студентів повністю утримуються від алкоголю і 79,1% не курять. Багато хто з дівчат заявили про необхідність зміни дієти, скорочення споживання алкоголю і відмови від куріння. Студенти вважають, що стрес, пов'язаний з відвідуванням університету, неминучий. Тому студентки проявляють інтерес до скорочення і обмеження психічної напруги. Незважаючи на свій юний вік, студентки виявили цікавість до таких тем, як: курс надання першої допомоги, харчування, сексуальності і проблем вагітності.
здоров’я, ставлення, університет, студентка, Польща.
Подставки Роберт, Горник Екатерина, Коланковска Эвелина, Борачински Михал, Борачинска Сандра. Установки, интересы и мнения студенток Ольштына (Польша) к своему здоровью - физическая активность, наркомания и знания о здоровом образе жизни. Усилия по улучшению здоровья населения в настоящее время сосредоточены на пропаганде здорового образа жизни, улучшения условий жизни и снижения смертности. Деятельность в области здоровьесберегающего образования включает регулярную физическую активность, оптимальное питание, снижение зависимостей и стрессов. Целью опроса, проведенного среди 672 первокурсников студенток в университете Вармии и Мазур в Ольштыне (Польша), является выявление отношения девушек к здоровому образу жизни.
В исследовании использовалось анонимное анкетирование студентов о формах физической активности, питанию, наличию стрессовых ситуаций, употребление наркотиков, таких как алкоголь и сигареты, а также заинтересованность в углублении знаний о здоровье населения.
Установлено, что большинство студентов принимали участие только в обязательных уроках физической культуры в средней школе и колледже. Они считают, что физическая активность во время учебы должна быть добровольной. Установлено, что только 4,24% студентов полностью воздерживаются от алкоголя и 79,1% не курят. Многие из девушек заявили о необходимости изменения диеты, сокращения потребления алкоголя и отказа от курения. Студенты считают, что стресс, связанный с посещением университета, неизбежен. Поэтому студентки проявляют интерес к сокращению и ограничению психического напряжения. Несмотря на свой юный возраст, студентки проявили интерес к таким темам, как: курс оказания первой помощи, питания, сексуальности и проблем беременности.
здоровье, отношение, университет, студентка, Польша.
Introduction
Health, as the value of acquired, in the opinion of the experts of the World Health Organization is a state of complete balance of the physical, mental and social, and not only the absence of disease and disability. Health is a value, not an end in itself, it should improve, enhance or restore, thereby improving the quality of life. The health situation of the population is determined by the influence of many factors associated with biological, social and economic factors. Amongst biological to distinguish it is possible factors associated with genetics, ripening or
© Podstawski Robert, Gornik Katarzyna, Kolankowska Ewelina, Boraczynski Michat, Boraczynska Sandra, 2013 doi: 10.6084/m9.figshare.691063
the ageing. The environmental influences relate primarily to physical and chemical factors, and the social-life of a human being. The impact on health is also access to primary and secondary health care, which is known in developing countries, is often difficult. The most important factor that determines a state of complete physical, mental and social, is the style of life of the individual [1]. Specific behaviors associated with work and recreation, the system of values and life skills specific to a given person will be responsible for the satisfaction of life in full health into old age [2].
Efforts to improve the health of the population are now focused on promoting healthy lifestyles, improve
living conditions and to prevent and reduce mortality from diseases of civilization. Health education activities are aimed at making regular physical activity, optimal nutrition, avoiding drugs, the right amount of sleep and stress response. Negatively affect the human body lives in a hurry and chronic stress, alcohol abuse, smoking, willingness to take risky and aggressive behavior [З].
Activities undertaken in leisure-time is one of the main factors preventing cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, osteoporosis and some cancers [4]. According to the experts, to maintain and improve the health of just necessary minimum daily ‘dose’ of exercise in the form of 1О-15 thousand steps. It is recommended to practice a minimum of ЗО minutes of moderate activity at least 5 days a week [5]. In comparison with other European countries [research project Bridging the East-West Gap] society Poles are showing the lowest percentage of people with high activity and the highest among the leading sedentary lifestyle. In addition, there is a tendency reducing of physical activity with age [6].
College is a time of learning and fun, mostly away from the supervision of parents, and therefore a way of life and nutrition student and the nature of the use of his free time depends largely on the financial situation, place of residence and the schedule of studies undertaken [7]. In general, young people are aware of the dangers of smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol. They know the consequences of poor diet and low physical activity levels, but the change of environment, succumbing to the influence of the environment that makes making decisions detrimental to their health. Researches on students’ lifestyles were conducted in Poland [8, 9, 1О] as well as all over the world [11, 12, 13]. Is, however, much
less research on the subjective opinion of students on the issues of public health. The need to raise awareness about the lifestyle of students, their level of interest in health prevention activities already observed in other countries, including Germany [14].
Aim of study
The aim of the study conducted among 1st year female students at the University of Warmia & Mazury in Olsztyn (UWM) was to assess their habits and attitudes towards a healthy lifestyle. The study aim was realized by attempting to answer the following questions:
1. What types of physical activity do students assume and how do they feel about it?
2. Are the students’ lifestyles and attitudes towards health appropriate?
Materials & Methods
The questionnaire was conducted in the summer semester of the 2005/2006 academic school year during obligatory P.E. classes. A total of 672 1st year female full-time students enrolled at the UWM were surveyed, which constituted over 95% of females aged 19-20 from randomly selected P.E. classes. The research was carried out in compliance with prior consent from the Ethical Committee of UWM, and the volunteers willingly agreed to participate in the study. The vast majority of students were permanent residents of the Warminsko-Mazurskie voivodeship in Poland. Table 1 provides a more detailed picture of the research group.
The highest percentage of students reported renting accommodation (48.70%), slightly less at home (23.61%) or on campus (22.68%). The highest number of students were residents of villages (39.02%), least students lives in big cities - from 50 to 100 000 population (7.47%).
Table 1. Description of the examined population
Residence during studies
Dormitory Rented Room or Flat Family Home Boarding school Other Total
N % N % N % N % N % N %
122 22.68 262 48.7О 127 23.61 27 5.О2 538 1ОО 122 22.68
Place of permanent residence
Village Town Total
< 2О ООО 2О-5О ООО ООО >1ОО ООО
256 39.О2 99 15.О9 129 19.66 49 7.47 123 18.75 656 1--
Place of secondary school completed
Village Town Total
< 2О ООО 2О-5О ООО ООО >1ОО ООО
N % N % N % N % N % N %
28 4.28 183 27.98 195 29.82 85 13.ОО 163 24.92 654 1ОО
Type of secondary school completed
Comprehensive High School Vocational Secondary school Total
N % N % N % 1ОО
528 81.73 118 18.27 646 1ОО
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The vast majority of respondents were graduates of comprehensive high schools (81.73%).
A diagnostics survey method was applied in the research using an anonymous questionnaire. Statistical calculations were performed with the aid of the Statistica v.10 PL software package.
Results
The study results have been divided into the following categories of human behaviors influencing health: physical activity, personal hygiene, nutrition, alcohol/tobacco use, reaction to stress and knowledge on public health.
Physical activity
The behaviors and opinions of 1 styear students regarding physical activity have been presented in tables 2-5. They show that highest percentage of the students (71.13%) took part in only one type of physical activity during secondary school. The vast majority of the respondents periodically restricted participation in physical education (55.21%) and 43.75% of the respondents did not benefit from the exemption of activities. Permanent exemption from classes declared seven women (1.04%) (Tab. 2).
Physical education classes in high school are mandatory, but the study shows that not all respondents took part in them (93.06%). Approximately one third of them declared exercising alone or sporadically with family (28.39%). Only 10.16% practiced sports in school sports clubs and 7.10% in those organized by non-school
sports clubs. None of them benefited from the proposed activities organized by the Academic Sports Association (Tab. 3).
The vast majority of surveyed students (72.68%) assessed their level of physical fitness as good, and about 18.70% as satisfactory. Nearly 7% of respondents considered their level of motor fitness as very good, and only 7 persons as outstanding. No respondent failed to assess the level of efficiency as very weak, and only 3 persons defined as poor (Table 4).
Due to the fact that post-adolescent girls often refrain from any forms of physical activity in secondary school as well as during their studies, the study subjects were asked about the desired nature and form of P.E. classes attended at university. Most students (58.18%) stated that P.E. classes should be offered as electives starting from the very first year of studies. Fewer students (25.45%) felt that P.E. classes should be obligatory during the first and second years, and by 11.67% should be mandatory classes throughout the course of the studies. Less than 5% of the students surveyed felt that physical education classes should not be at all. Most students (74.96%) wanted to participate in P.E. classes recreationally, while approximately one fifth (14.53%) preferred sports. Just over of students 4% weren’t able to specify the preferred nature of P.E. lessons and 6.34% didn’t want to participate in any form whatsoever (Tab. 5).
Table 2. Students ’ opinions on forms of physical activity assumed during secondary school
Number of forms
1 2 3 4 5 Total
N % N % N % N % N % N %
470 71.13 141 21.40 20 3.03 28 4.25 0 0.00 659 100
Not limited Periodically Limited Limited constantly Total
N % N % N % N %
294 43.75 371 55.21 7 1.04 672 100
Number of limited disciplines
1 2 3 4 5 6 Total
N % N % N % N % N % N % N %
165 65.73 56 22.31 14 5.58 7 2.79 6 2.39 3 1.20 251 100
Explanations: N - number of answers, % - percentage
Table 3. Forms of physical activity undertaken by students during secondary school
Physical activity form N %
Obligatory PE Lessons 577 93.06
School Sport Club (SSC) 63 10.16
Collegiate Sport Club 21 3.39
Non-school Sports Clubs 44 7.10
Society for the Propagation of Physical Culture 5 0.81
Other Organisation 4 0.65
Academic Sport s Association 0 0.00
None 4 0.65
Individually, occasionally with family 176 28.39
І ПЕДАГОГІКА І та медик°-біол°гічні
*----“---------------* проблеми фізичного
виховання і спорту
Table 4. Students’ opinion on their level of motor fitness on a scale of 1 - 6
Level of motor fitness N %
1 (very poor) 0 0.00
2 (poor) 3 0.49
3 (satisfactory) 115 18.70
4 (good) 447 72.68
5 (very good) 43 6.99
6 (outstanding) 7 1.14
Total 615 100
Explanations: N - number of answers, % - percentage
Table 5. Students ’ opinions on the nature and form of the PE lessons during university studies
Nature of PE lessons
Obligatory during all study years Obligatory during first two years Only voluntary Completely unnecessary Total
N % N % N % N % N %
77 11.67 168 25.45 384 58.18 31 5.00 660 100
Form of PE lessons
No opinion I do not want to attend Recreation Sport Total
N % N % N % N % N %
38 6.34 25 4.17 449 74.96 87 14.53 599 100
Explanations: N - number of answers, % - percentage
Table 6. Students’ opinions on sanitary conditions at UWM and methods of improvement
Are the sanitary conditions at UWM satisfactory?
Yes No I do not know Total
N % N % N % N %
236 41.48 100 17.57 233 40.95 569 100
How to improve it?
Improve room cleanness 43 27.74
Cleaning products 48 30.97
Repairs; increasing the standards of buildings 41 26.45
University development 23 14.84
Total 155 100
Explanations: N - number of answers, % - percentage
Table 7. Students’ opinions on the most important pro-health activities
Most important pro-health activities N %
Everyday body hygiene 601 54.98
Nutrition 140 12.80
Cleanliness and Tidiness of Apparel 45 4.11
Cleaning and disinfection of rooms/flats 35 3.20
Cosmetics 117 10.70
Proper motor fitness 28 2.56
Other 127 11.62
Total* 1093 100
No of activities
1 activity 2 activities 3 activities 4 activities 5 activities 6- activities Total
N % N % N % N % N % N % N %
161 32.33 159 31.93 142 28.51 33 6.63 2 0.40 1 0.20 498 100
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Table 8. Number of infectious diseases familiar to female students
Number of infectious diseases
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Total
N % N % N % N % N % N % N % N % N % N %
77 14.21 94 17.34 118 21.77 115 21.22 76 14.02 28 5.17 29 5.35 3 0.55 2 0.37 542 100
Explanations: N - number of answers, % - percentage
Table 9. Students’ opinions on knowledge of first-aid
Yes No No opinion Total
N % N % N % N %
635 94.78 9 1.34 26 3.88 670 100
Explanations: N - number of answers, % - percentage
Table 10. Students ’ opinions on their nutritional habits and the willingness to change them
Current influence of nutrition
Positive Negative Lack of influence Total
N % N % N % N %
246 38.44 224 35.00 170 26.56 640 100
Future influence of nutrition
N % N % N % N %
305 49.35 203 32.85 110 17.80 618 100
Willingness to change eating habits
Yes No No opinion Total
N % N % N % N %
523 78.06 147 21.94 0 0.00 670 100
Explanations: N - number of answers, % - percentage
Table 11. Students’ opinions on alcohol consumption
Alcohol consumption
I do not drink Sporadically Once a month Once a week Every day Total
N % N % N % N % N % N %
28 4.24 561 85.00 25 3.79 40 6.06 6 0.91 660 100
Number of types of alcohol
1 2 3 4 Total
N % N % N % N % N %
562 96.40 12 2.06 9 1.54 0 0.00 583 100
Explanations: N - number of answers, % - percentage
Table 12. Students ’ opinions on most often consumed kind of alcohol and access to it on the territory of UWM
prefer to drink N %
Beer 324 34.25
Wine 296 31.29
Cognac 10 1.06
Vodka 98 10.36
I do not drink at all 102 10.78
Other 33 3.49
Total* 863 100.00
Should Alcohal be Allowed on Campus
Yes No No opinion Total
N % Nie % N % N %
478 69.58 62 9.02 147 21.40 687 100
Personal hygiene
A similar percentage of students surveyed felt that the sanitary and hygienic conditions are appropriate or had a neutral opinion (respectively 41.48% and 4О.95%). Nearly one fifth female students reported that the hygienic conditions at the University of Warmia and Mazury, whilst 33.24% felt otherwise. The highest percentage of students (3О.97%) indicated that in order to increase the level of hygiene at the university, it is necessary to supply cleaning products. Significantly fewer students indicated improving the cleanness of facilities and to remodel and improve the standards of the infrastructure as a whole (27.74% and 26.45% respectively). The development of the university was mentioned by only 14.84% of the respondents (Tab. 6).
Daily hygiene including showering, brushing teeth, and cleaning intimate parts of the body was indentified among the most important habits connected with good health by 54.98%. Similar percentages of students considered proper nutrition, the use of cosmetics and other as an important aspect of good health (12.8О%, 1О.7О% and 11.62% respectively). Frighteningly low percentage of respondents opted for physical fitness (2.56%). Nearly one third of those questioned specified just one or two pro health behavior, while only 28.51% found three treatments (Tab. 7).
The highest percentage of students (27.47%) was able to indicate three infectious diseases. Similar percentages of students were able to indicate three and four infectious diseases (21.77% and 21.22%) and six and seven (5.17% and 5.35%). Almost few were able to identify more than 8 (Tab. 8).
Almost all students (94.78%) felt it was necessary to know first aid. Only nine people didn’t consider this to be important and almost 4% had no opinion on the matter (Tab. 9).
Nutrition & tobacco/alcohol use
Tables 1О - 13 present the habits and opinions of students regarding nutrition and tobacco/alcohol use. Nearly 4О% of respondents felt that their current diet has a positive effect on their health, while 35% reported their negative impact. The majority of respondents believed that nutrition will have an impact on their health in the future (49.35%), therefore more than three-quarters of respondents expressed the willingness to improve their dietary habits.
The large majority of questioned 1st year students (85.ОО%) admitted to sporadically consuming alcohol. Only 4.24% denied drinking alcohol altogether with 3.79% stating that they drank only once a month. Relatively high percentages, 6.О6% admitted that they drank alcohol once a week. The large majority of questioned declared drinking only one type of alcohol (96.4О%).
Beer (55.41%) and wine (25.12%) were among the most popular alcoholic beverages. Relatively fewer people reported drinking vodka or other forms of alcohol (7.93% and 1О.22%). Similar percentages of students said that alcohol should be readily available on campus or didn’t have an opinion on the matter (39.21% and 39.О6%), but 21.73% this (Tab. 12).
Most female students (79.10%) were completely against smoking but 6.32% felt it was acceptable in certain situations. Approximately 10.23% of the respondents believed that smoking helps to relieve stress and a bit over four percent - that it helps socialize. Most students who smoked (43.93%) wanted to quit, while a significant percentage did not wish to do so or did not have a clear opinion on the issue (28.97% and 27.10% - Tab.13).
Stress
The opinions of female students regarding stress are presented in tables 14 and 15. Nearly half of the students (52.94%) agreed that it is impossible to avoid stressful situations while at university, while quarter (24.89%) were very worried about stress and fewer than 20% (22.17%) felt that they would be able to cope with it well (Tab. 14). Most respondents indicated two methods (44.83%), while a similar percentage of declared or use one of three methods of coping with stress (respectively 28.33% and 26.39%).
Sport was reported to be the best means of dealing with stress (19.74%), followed by meeting with friends (15.30%). Walking, listening to music or relaxing was also considered to be good methods by 11.91%, 8.21% and 5.35% of students respectively (Tab.15).
Knowledge regarding health care
First-year university students were very interested in gaining knowledge on the following topics of health care: first aid (61.03%), stress prevention and reduction (57.59%), nutrition (57.42%), problems with pregnancy and proper care during it (50.22%), and sexuality (49.04%). The spread and prevention of infectious diseases (60.28%), ethics of sexuality (52.65%), physical activity programs and guidelines (49.69%), controlling and assessing one’s level of motor fitness (49.69%), and differences in the health behaviors of men and women (49.27%) were shown to invoke the partial interest of the surveyed students. On the other hand, topics such as: nicotine use and its consequences (61.40%), the reasons behind alcoholism and its consequences (47.65%), tiredness and fatigue (45.36%), and biorhythms and their influence on peoples’ behaviors were not found to grab the attention of members of our study group (Tab.16).
Discussion
Risk behaviors that contribute to an increase in morbidity and mortality among youth and adults, are due to behavioral and are often established during childhood and adolescence. Contemporary youth lifestyle is far from a healthy lifestyle model promoted in the literature. Increased rates of morbidity and mortality from various civilization diseases are mainly due to smoking, improper diet and lack of physical activity [15]. Sedentary lifestyle, and hence no activity in leisure time, is closely correlated with an increase in the number of obese people in the adult population in the European Union [16]. Despite growing awareness of Poles, the necessity of making physical activity to maintain and improve health, only a small part of the population has the satisfactory level of motor fitness.
It seems reasonable to monitor lifestyles of students, particularly in the field of physical activity and addictions.
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Table 13. Students’ opinions on smoking
Opinions N %
I am in favour of total abstaining from cigarettes completely. 526 79.10
I sometimes approve of smoking in social circumstances and with moderation 42 6.32
Smoking helps relieve nerve tension 68 10.23p
Smoking helps meet people 29 4.36
Total 665 100
Do you want to give up smoking?
Yes No No opinion Total
N % Nie % N % N %
47 43.93 31 28.97 29 27.10 107 100
Explanations: N - number of answers, % - percentage
Table 14. Students’ opinions on stressful situations encountered during studies and the number of methods they were familiar with of coping with stress
Opinions N %
I consider stressful situations to be unavoidable 351 52.94
Stressful situations are encountered but I shall cope with them 147 22.17
I am very afraid of stressful situations 165 24.89
I cannot answer univocally 0 0.00
Total 663 100
Number of indicated methods
1 2 3 4 5 Total
N % N % N % N % N % N %
189 28.33 299 44.83 176 26.39 3 0.45 0 0.00 667 100
Explanations: N - number of answers, % - percentage
Table 15. Students ’ opinions on the best methods of coping with stress
Methods N %
Relaxation methods (yoga) 26 1.96
Massage 9 0.68
Breathing exercises 7 0.53
Doing sports 262 19.74
Proper nutrition 23 1.73
Meeting friends 203 15.30
Listening to music 109 8.21
Talking to a psychologist 3 0.23
Proper organisation of time 9 0.68
Sleeping 49 3.69
Alcohol, nicotine and drug use 16 1.21
Drinking coffee 6 0.45
Drinking tea 17 1.28
Sweets 58 4.37
I do not think about stress 56 4.22
Relaxing 71 5.35
Sauna 7 0.53
Walking 158 11.91
Hobby 9 0.68
Talking with a friend 63 4.75
Reading books 10 0.75
Shopping 17 1.28
Sex 18 1.36
Crying 5 0.38
Watching TV 6 0.45
Taking pills/medication 12 0.90
I do not know 33 2.49
Other 65 4.90
Total* 1327 100
Table 16. Knowledge on public health gained in voluntary lessons
Subjects I am interested in the following subjects
Fully Partly Not at all Total
N % N % N % N %
Tiredness & fatigue 81 12.96 269 43.О4 275 44.ОО 625 1ОО
First aid 392 6О.4О 238 36.67 19 2.93 649 1ОО
Sexuality 264 41.77 296 46.84 72 11.39 632 1ОО
Culture of interpersonal contacts 317 5О.56 24О 38.28 7О 11.16 627 1ОО
24 h rhythm of work and rest ^б 27.62 267 44.43 168 27.95 6О1 1ОО
Civilization diseases 188 29.15 3О5 47.29 152 23.57 645 1ОО
Sexual life of humans 273 4О.87 зіі 46.56 84 12.57 668 1ОО
Essence of psychological and social health hazards 257 44.О8 227 38.94 99 16.98 583 1ОО
Rest 128 22.15 255 44.12 195 33.74 578 1ОО
The spread and prophylaxis of civilization diseases ^l 26.14 353 57.31 1О2 16.56 б^ 1ОО
Ethics and culture of sexual life 212 33.54 317 5О.16 1О3 16.3О 632 1ОО
Methods of preventing and reducing stress 362 59.15 2О8 33.99 42 6.86 612 1ОО
Hygiene of brain-work 233 37.7О 243 39.32 142 22.98 618 1ОО
Proper nutrition ЗЗб 55.35 198 32.62 73 12.О3 6О7 1ОО
Venereal diseases and methods of protection against them 143 23.91 292 48.83 ^3 27.26 598 1ОО
24 h rhythm of work and rest Пб 2О.96 257 39.6О 256 39.45 649 1ОО
Control and self-assessment of individual physical ability 121 18.56 324 49.69 2О7 31.75 652 1ОО
Personal hygiene and lifestyle 154 23.77 293 45.22 2О1 31.О2 648 1ОО
Coniugal maturity 271 4О.27 259 38.48 143 21.25 673 1ОО
Nicotine use and its conseauences 94 14.99 148 23.6О 385 61.4О 627 1ОО
Physical activity programmes 1О7 16.64 323 5О.23 213 33.13 643 1ОО
Prophylaxis against colds and building resistance 198 29.О3 289 42.38 195 28.59 682 1ОО
Motherhood and fatherhood -planning of family 245 35.4О 269 38.87 178 25.72 692 1ОО
Alcoholism, causes and problems 1О4 15.78 241 36.57 314 47.65 659 1ОО
Everyday physical culture 114 17.22 3О2 45.62 256 38.67 662 1ОО
Differences in male and female health behaviours 174 25.44 337 49.27 173 25.29 684 1ОО
Problems of pregnancy and its protection 345 5О.22 247 35.95 95 13.83 687 1ОО
Drug use 178 28.66 241 38.81 2О2 32.53 621 1ОО
Abbreviations: N - number of responses, % - percentage
Graduates are assumed to be the elite of our society, so they should show understanding for the need to change lifestyles and promote healthy behaviors among their families and friends.
The basic aims of physical culture, which include stimulating development and motor fitness, health, recovery of physical and mental strength as well as shaping desirable personality traits is to form permanent motor habits performed daily in order to improve or maintain health at an optimal level. The presented study reveals the behaviors and opinions of UWM female students regarding the above mentioned aspects of health risks and their prevention. The results are alarming. Over 56% of respondents limited participation in obligatory P.E. lessons in high school because of sick leave, even though it’s almost 73% of its motor fitness rated as good. Almost 60% of students agreed that physical education classes during the study should be purely voluntary since the first year, more than it should be of recreational activities (75%). Attitude towards physical activities students confirms that women compared with men less likely to undertake physical activity as well as participate in additional recreational activities at a lower frequency [12, 17]. The youth of today spend the majority of their free time on the computer or in front of TV These negative
habits do not change during studies at university, when students spend even more time in the sitting position during lectures.
The problem of obesity and overweight due to lack of exercise and excessive food intake is currently a global problem, as indicated by the results of research within the WHO MONICA [18]. The main cause of irregular eating by students is the lack of time and an irregular schedule. Nowadays, due to the difficult financial situation of students take up jobs while studying, which further affects food products with high calorific value (fast-food), of late or in a hurry. Our research showed that nearly 78% of the surveyed students would like to improve their diets. Students are aware that proper diets in the past and now have a significant impact on their current state of health, appearance and well-being. The need for educating university age youth on the topic of nutrition has been observed throughout the world in countries such as: the United States [19], Spain [20], and Italy [21]. Providing knowledge regarding healthy eating and food safety can in fact lead to the improvement of dietary habits [22].
The conducted studies also dealt with the issue of tobacco and alcohol use. Most young people take up smoking and drinking due to peer pressure, curiosity, and in order to draw attention to themselves. Alcohol
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consumption among students is recorded regardless of the country of which they are, or course of study [23, 24]. The problem of excessive alcohol consumption contributed to the creation of international research projects, such as The European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs - ESPAD [25]. According to the research, alcohol usually accompanied by events or emotional situations. In the opinion of students facilitates contacts and improves mood. The large majority of respondents (approx. 85%) admitted to the sporadic consumption of alcohol with only a mere percentage (approx. 4%) abstaining from it. Data concerning the regular consumption of alcohol (every week - 6% and every day almost 1%) is very worrisome. It indicates that these young females are at risk of becoming alcoholics. Comparing our research to those of another Polish author, insignificantly more students (9%) in Gdansk abstained from drinking [8]. In general the questioned students didn’t have anything against the availability of alcohol products on campus. From the above we can conclude that drinking alcohol is trendy and students are significantly influenced by the university environment [26]. These results are alarming, because alcohol is a substance very harmful for health, consequently leading to mental, physical and social disorders. Pathological changes relate to the liver, heart muscle and nervous system and gastrointestinal tract. Alcoholism among young people causes more accidents, crimes and increased negative sexual behaviors.
Tobacco use also poses a major health risk, as smoking is currently considered to be the most serious health risk factor and the main reason behind premature mortality. Research Steptoe et al. [11] conducted among students of European countries indicates that the frequency of smoking by young people increased significantly. In their study, nearly 80% report a negative attitude to smoking cigarettes. Some of the students admitted to smoking regularly, and more than 10% smoke a cigarette in stressful situations. The percentage of women smokers in the presented research is lower than in other studies conducted among the students of Polish universities
(Medical University of Lodz - 31.6%, Medical University of Lublin - 25.2%) [26, 27]. The majority of smokers expressed the wish to break this negative habit (44%). An alternative to smoking may be physical exercise which helps relieve nervous tension. The fitness habit is definitely healthier than nicotine addiction.
Life satisfaction is also dependent on the ability to cope with stressful situations. Symptoms of depression were identified as a health problem among the students from many countries. Students pointed to general anxiety, feelings of hopelessness and sadness. Moderate symptoms of depression were reported in 43% of the students in Central and Eastern Europe [28]. Studies have shown that almost V of students, even though they know ways of coping with stress, fears of occurring stressful situations during the study. According to Mikolajczyk et al [29] these situations arise not only from the need to learn, but also with a possible change of residence, change in financial situation and the need to adapt to the new environment. Students taking part in the study declared the elimination of tension through physical activity (19.74%) and meeting friends (15.30%).
An important element in shaping health behavior is the knowledge of the issues in this area. The university environment is a good opportunity for young adults to adopt a healthy lifestyle. It is possible that health education program during the university course have positively influence for alter the behaviors of students in terms of physical activity, nutrition and stress management [30]. In order to be successful however, such programs must account for the opinions and current behaviors of students in a particular university environment. Female students were asked about their willingness to participate in lectures in the field of public health. Our research shows that despite some negative tendencies many students expressed the readiness to improve their lifestyles. Observations concerning the lifestyle and health attitudes of young adults are a very valuable source of information and ought to be continued in the future.
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ПСИХОЛОГІЯ
Information about the authors:
Podstawski Robert: [email protected]; University of Warmia & Mazury in Olsztyn; Prawochenskiego 7, 10-720 Olsztyn, Poland
Gornik Katarzyna: [email protected]; University of
Szczecin; Mickiewicza 16, 70-383 Szczecin, Poland
Kolankowska Ewelina: [email protected]; University of Warmia & Mazury in Olsztyn; Prawochenskiego 7, 10-720 Olsztyn, Poland
Boraczynski Michal: [email protected]; Jozef Rusiecki Olsztyn University College; Bydgoska 33, 10-243 Olsztyn, Poland
Boraczynska Sandra: [email protected]; Jozef Rusiecki Olsztyn University College; Bydgoska 33, 10-243 Olsztyn, Poland
Cite this article as: Podstawski Robert, Gornik Katarzyna, Kolankowska Ewelina, Boraczynski Michal, Boraczynska Sandra. Health attitudes of the female students from Olsztyn, Poland - the physical activity, addictions and the knowledge about health behaviors. Pedagogics, psychology, medical-biological problems of physical training and sports, 2013, vol.4, pp. 73-82. doi:10.6084/m9.figshare.691063
The electronic version of this article is the complete one and can be found online at: http://www.sportpedagogy.org.ua/html/arhive-e.html
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Received: 21.02.2013 Published: 30.04.2013
Информация об авторах:
Подставки Роберт:[email protected]; Университет Вар-мии и Мазур в Ольштыне; Правоченскиего 7, 10-720, Ольштын, Польша
Горник Екатерина: [email protected]; Щецинский университет; Мискиевича 16, 70-383, Щецин, Польша Коланковска Эвелина: [email protected]; Университет Вармии и Мазур в Ольштыне; Правоченскиего 7, 10-720, Ольштын, Польша
Борачински Михал: [email protected]; Ольштынска высшая школа им. Ю. Русецкого; ул. Быдгоска, 33, 10-243 Ольштын, Польша
Борачинска Сандра: [email protected]; Ольштынска высшая школа им. Ю. Русецкого; ул. Быдгоска, 33, 10-243 Ольштын, Польша
Цитируйте эту статью как: Подставки Роберт, Горник Екатерина, Коланковска Эве лина, Борачински Михал, Борачинска Сандра. Установки, интересы и мнения студенток Ольштына (Польша) к своему здоровью - физическая активность, наркомания и знания о здоровом образе жизни /// Педагопка, психолопя та медико-бюлопчш проблеми фізичного виховання i спорту. -2013. - № 4. - С. 73-82. doi:10.6084/m9.figshare.691063
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Дата поступления в редакцию: 21.02.2013 г
Опубликовано: 30.04.2013 г.
