Prevalence of non-communicable disease risk factors and health-promoting lifestyle profiles, and Associations of nursing students in selected Schools of Nursing in the Western Province, Sri Lanka
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Background
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and lifestyle factors are important etiological factors. It is essential to be aware of the prevalence of NCD risk factors and health-promoting behaviors among nursing students because they are a future healthcare workforce responsible for promoting healthy lifestyles. This study assessed the prevalence of risk factors for NCDs, health-promoting lifestyle behaviors, and their relationships among nursing students.
Method
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in two randomly selected Schools of Nursing in the Western Province, Sri Lanka. Using a census sampling technique, 603 nursing students were enrolled. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire with three sections: socio-demographic information, NCD risk factors, and the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II (HPLP II). Anthropometric measurements were taken to assess Body mass index(BMI). Data analysis was performed using SPSS statistical package (version 24), employing descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, t-tests, ANOVA, and Chi-square rest.
Results
Among the participants, 78.9% were aged 23-25 years, and 93.4% were female. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 11.4%, with males exhibiting a higher prevalence (21.62%) than females (10.89%) (p<0.05). Low physical activity was reported by 71.96% of students, with a higher prevalence among females (73.42%) than males (51.35%) (p<0.05). The overall HPLP II mean score (2.39±0.30) indicated a middle level of health-promoting behaviors, with low physical activity (1.87±0.49) and health responsibility (2.11±0.40) subscales scoring weakest. Significant correlations were found among all HPLP II subscales. Age, gender, and income were significantly associated with health-promoting behaviors.
Conclusions
Nursing students in the Western Province, Sri Lanka, have an alarmingly high rate of NCD risk factors, particularly low physical activity. Health-promoting behavior is moderate with some areas requiring improvement. Physical activity and health responsibility must be addressed through interventions to equip future nurses with healthy habits and enhance their role as health promoters.
Key Message
What is already known on this topic
Non-communicable diseases such as ischemic heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension are increasingly prevalent in Sri Lanka, driven by lifestyle changes including physical inactivity and unhealthy diets. Alarming trends among young adults, such as rising obesity rates and poor dietary habits, are particularly concerning.
What this study adds
This study provides updated, localized data on the prevalence of NCD key risk factors and health-promoting behaviors among nursing students in Sri Lanka who were underrepresented in previous studies. It highlights specific areas of concern, such as low physical activity and poor health responsibility, and identifies demographic factors associated with health behavior patterns.
How might this study affect research, practice, or policy
These findings can inform the development of targeted interventions in nursing education to promote healthier lifestyles among students. It also underscores the need to incorporate structured health promotion and physical activity programs within nursing curricula. On a policy level, it could support the implementation of wellness initiatives in healthcare training institutions to foster a healthier future workforce.
