Citation

Eaton DK, Kann L, Okoro CA, Collins J. Am. J. Health Educ. 2007; 38(2): 66-75.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study examined the prevalence of selected clinical preventive health services, health status indicators, health risk behaviors, and health-promoting behaviors among adults aged 18 to 24 years in the general U.S. population. The study analyzed data from the 2003 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Nearly 30% of young adults lacked health care coverage. When 21- to 24-year-olds were compared with 18- to 20-year-olds, a 32% increase was noted in current cigarette smoking, a 37% increase in current binge drinking, a 48% increase in current alcohol use, a 27% increase in overweight and obesity, and an 8% decrease in engaging in sufficient physical activity. Results from this study reveal several areas for concern regarding the health of young adults. Continuation of education beyond high school and being married are associated with some health benefits. Carefully crafted health promotion programs and appropriate policies need to be placed in locations that are accessed by this population.