Sleep, Nutrition, Disordered Eating, Problematic Tobacco and Alcohol Use, and Exercise in College Students With and Without Diabetes

Abstract

The purpose of the current study was to examine the health behaviors of college students with diabetes and compare behaviors to college students without diabetes. This descriptive study used the American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment II and included 1,216 students between ages 18 and 24. Health behaviors related to sleep, nutrition, disordered eating, problematic tobacco and alcohol use, and exercise were examined. Students with diabetes (n = 528) reported a higher frequency of meeting exercise recommendations and less healthy behaviors related to nutrition and problematic tobacco and alcohol use. Both groups of students reported inadequate sleep. Students with diabetes reported more academic problems due to sleep difficulties, disordered eating, and problematic alcohol use. Health behaviors in both groups showed similar needs for improvement. Nurses are in a position to guide new, prospective, and continuing college students with diabetes in practicing behaviors associated with positive health outcomes. Opportunities for interventions are numerous. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 57(12), 23-32.].