GRAMPIAN'S YOUNG PEOPLE ARE LEADING HEALTHIER LIFESTYLES BUT THERE ARE STILL AREAS FOR CONCERN
Results of Grampian Youth Lifestyle Survey 2007 Published. The press release of summary findings is also available Youth Lifestyle Survey 2008 Summary Presentation.
A survey has found that young people in the north east have more positive lifestyles than six years ago, although it has highlighted some areas of concern.
The findings, published today by NHS Grampian, give an insight into lifestyles of secondary school children and, for the first time, of young people aged 18-25.
Conducted by the University of Aberdeen, it found many positive changes since the previous surveys in 1992, 1995, 1998 and 2001, for example fewer youngsters smoking and trying drugs. However, there remain areas of concern such as the high level of smoking among young women, an unhealthy level of alcohol consumption and a lack of awareness of HIV.
The young people's survey provides a useful baseline as well as an insight into lifestyles of this older group. The perceptions of general health were similar to those at school but eating patterns were less regular and alcohol consumption is higher. A greater proportion smoke but many report a desire to quit smoking.
Although knowledge about healthy eating is high in both age groups, increasing numbers are overweight as age increases.
There are important differences between males and females both at school and in the older group. Males tend to take more exercise, feel fit and have a better perception of good health. By contrast, females are interested in other people, want to make healthy lifestyle choices but tend to be more apprehensive about their own health.
Dr Lesley Wilkie is Director of Public Health for NHS Grampian. She said:
"We are encouraged by the positive changes in young people's behaviour in significant areas especially in relation to trying drugs and smoking. We recognise that there are still areas for concern and have a range of initiatives and practical support in place throughout NHS Grampian with our partner organisations to help address this."
"The results will be studied to help shape local planning in NHS Grampian and the three Community Planning Partnerships, to promote health and reduce inequalities.
"They will enable us to identify priorities and make plans with our partners for future work, targeting shortcomings and continuing progress towards the national targets for health improvement.
"The University of Aberdeen and NHS Grampian is very grateful to everyone who took part and to the schools, universities and colleges for their co-operation."
The survey was carried out between October 1 and November 12, 2007 and involved a ten per cent sample of all pupils from all secondary schools in Grampian. The survey asked about lifestyles and opinions on health topics such as smoking, physical activity, drugs, diet and alcohol. The data was weighted prior to analysis making sure it accurately represented both boys and girls, and all age groups.
There was an excellent 71 per cent response rate from schools, with 2341 completed questionnaires. Within the older 18-25 year group, the survey was distributed as a self completion paper questionnaire sent to a ten per cent sample using the Community Health Index, or on-line through universities and colleges. A total of 1394 questionnaires were analysed representing five per cent of this age group. Youth Lifestyle Survey 2008 Summary Presentation