Study of Health Promoting Lifestyle among Dental Undergraduate's

Abstract

This study investigates the health-promoting lifestyle of dental undergraduate students, aiming to discern the component structure of the Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile [HPLP]. As health promotion becomes increasingly vital in preventing non-communicable diseases, particularly within the healthcare profession, dental students are expected to play a significant role in fostering a healthy lifestyle. The primary objective is to identify and assess the six elements of the HPLP and their sociodemographic determinants among dental science undergraduates. The research employs a cross-sectional approach, utilizing a modified version of a questionnaire widely used in surveys on healthy lifestyles. A self-administered Google Form is distributed to students before lectures, employing a Likert scale for responses. The four-point scale ranges from 'Never' to 'Routinely,' prompting students to indicate the frequency of engagement in various health-promoting behaviors. Ethical considerations are duly acknowledged, with institutional approval obtained, and informed consent collected from participants. Results reveal intriguing insights into the health behaviors of dental students. The abstracted findings provide valuable information for the expansion of medical knowledge and potential treatment advantages for future patients. The study's significance lies in contributing to the understanding of health-promoting behaviors among this specific student demographic. Overall, this research sheds light on the multifaceted aspects of healthy living, encompassing factors such as physical activity, nutrition, stress management, and interpersonal relations. The identified patterns and trends offer a foundation for designing targeted interventions or educational programs to further enhance the health-promoting lifestyle of dental students, thereby positively impacting their well-being and potentially influencing their future roles as healthcare professionals. This study, grounded in confirmatory factor analysis and construct validity, adds a valuable dimension to the ongoing discourse on health promotion within educational settings.