Health Promoting Behaviors in Women of Reproductive Age in Yazd city

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic diseases are the major cause of death and disability in the world. Despite the high prevalence and complications of chronic diseases, many of them are preventable using simple methods. Health promoting behaviors are one of the best ways to protect the health. Women are the center of family health and the model of education and promotion of healthy lifestyle regarding the next generation. So, the aim of this study was to investigate the health promoting behaviors of women of reproductive age in Yazd city, Iran.
 Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 120 women aged 15-49 supported by Shahid Farshad Health Center in Yazd. Health-promoting behaviors questionnaire (HPLP-II) was used to collect the study information. The participants were required to complete the questionnaires using the self-report methods. Data were analyzed by spss16using the descriptive and inferential statistics.
 Results: The mean age of women was 33.67±7.43. The highest mean score (26.60± 5.06) was related to the spiritual growth subscales; whereas, the lowest mean scores was attributed to physical activity (13.6±3.6) and stress management (18.69± 3.7). Age and level of education had a significant association with the total score of health promoting lifestyle.
 Conclusion: Despite the desirability of participants' promoting health behaviors in the present study, health-promoting behaviors should be promoted, especially in the field of physical activity and stress management. Health education using various methods is a suitable tool for motivating and modifying the incorrect behaviors. As a result, appropriate interventions should be conducted to encourage the health promotion behaviors.