Factors Influencing Practices of Health Behavior for Cancer Prevention in University Students

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify the factors influencing practices of health behavior for cancer prevention in university students. Methods: Data were collected by questionnaires from 332 university students in J city. To analyze the data, descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, Scheffes test, and stepwise multiple regression analysis were performed with SPSS/WIN 21.0. Results: The mean score of practices of health behavior for cancer prevention was 3.18 +/-.41. Significant factors that affect practices of health behavior for cancer prevention in university students were self-efficacy, perceived benefits, health status, activity related affect, exercise, family's economic status, and the fear of cancer. These variables explained 31.7% of practices of health behavior for cancer prevention. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the level of practices of health behavior is not sufficient for cancer prevention among university students. Therefore it is necessary to develop a tailored education program to improve the practices of health behavior for cancer prevention in university students. It is also suggested that the education be focused on self-efficacy, perceived benefits and activity related affect.