Abstract
University student years are a particularly influential period, during which time students may adopt negative behaviours that set the precedent for health outcomes in later years. This study utilised a newly digitised health survey implemented during health screening at a university in Singapore to capture student health data. The aim of this study was to analyze the health status of this Asian university student population. A total of 535 students were included in the cohort, and a cross-sectional analysis of student health was completed. Areas of concern were highlighted in student’s body weight, visual acuity, and binge drinking. A large proportion of students were underweight (body mass index (BMI) < 18.5)—18.9% of females and 10.6% of males—and 7% of males were obese (BMI > 30). Although the overall prevalence of alcohol use was low in this study population, 9% of females and 8% of males who consumed alcohol had hazardous drinking habits. Around 16% of these students (male and female combined) typically drank 3–4 alcoholic drinks each occasion. The prevalence of mental health conditions reported was very low (<1%). This study evaluated the results from a digitised health survey implemented into student health screening to capture a comprehensive health history. The results reveal potential student health concerns and offer the opportunity to provide more targeted student health campaigns to address these.
Highlights
Health screening has been adopted by several countries, in Asia and the UnitedStates, as a mandatory requirement for entry into tertiary education institutions
The digital health survey was developed based on the current matriculation health survey form, including the following details: personal particulars, demographics, medical history, medication and allergy history, family history, tobacco and alcohol consumption, and mental health/psychiatric history
A validated questionnaire was used for the assessment of alcohol misuse: the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test–Concise (AUDIT-C)
Summary
Health screening has been adopted by several countries, in Asia and the United. As a mandatory requirement for entry into tertiary education institutions. Screening provides an opportune moment to capture baseline health information for the evaluation of student health during their time at university. Health screening has traditionally been conducted using paper and pen assessment forms. By implementing a digitised health survey with algorithm-based adaptive questionnaires, we can individually tailor questionnaires, improve data capture and efficiency, and concurrently obtain valuable population health insights to deliver targeted health interventions. Universities utilise health screening to determine the minimum physical health requirement for incoming students, and to ensure the safety and wellness of the school population.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
