Student and Faculty Attitudes and Behaviors towards Healthy Lifestyles in a CAM Educational Institution

Abstract

Although healthy lifestyles are considered vital for optimal health and functioning in our society, many studies have shown that most Americans do not follow basic health promotion advice. Research supports that much chronic disease burden, such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes are closely linked to unhealthy behaviors. The unhealthy lifestyle habits of Americans have been closely studied, but there is little research specifically on students and faculty at CAM education institutions. CAM providers have traditionally stressed the importance of the healthy lifestyle as part of their treatment regimen, and it is important for health care providers to model these behaviors that they seek to teach. This survey was conducted to determine students' and faculty's attitudes and behaviors relating to a healthy lifestyle. For students we examined whether these factors changed based on the year of their study. The survey also included questions about demographics, family lifestyles and the communities that participants belong to. Demographic questions included age, gender, ethnicity and race. Family lifestyle questions included family eating and exercise habits and other modifiable behaviors such as smoking and drinking at home. Communities included both geographic area and cultural groups. Participants were asked about any changes that have occurred in their lifestyle since they joined this institution and barriers to participating in healthy behaviors. The results will be used to develop programs to improve the lifestyle of students and faculty so they can be models for healthy communities.