Dynamic developmental trajectory of problem eating behavior among students from one university of Jiangsu Province

Abstract

Objective To explore the dynamic developmental trajectory of problem eating behavior among college students, and to provide evidence for the early prevention and intervention of eating problems. Methods A cluster sample of 5 372 freshmen from a university in Jiangsu Province were included and followed up for 4 years by using the eating behavior problems scale. Results The problem eating behavior of college students in Jiangsu Province showed a decreasing after increasing trend(5.17±1.36, 5.39±1.53, 5.14±1.42, 4.96±1.37)(F=112.12, P Conclusion There are group heterogeneity and sex-specific effect in problem eating behavior of college students, which needs specific intervention strategies provided from colleges.