Health and behavioral changes among international students at the University of Georgia

Abstract

Background During last decade the number of international students is rising not only in developed, but in developing countries. In this matter, Georgia is not an exception. In 2006-2016, country enrolled more than 13 000 International students in 127 English language programs in 33 Higher Education Institutions. Study aimed to investigate health and lifestyle changes among international students of one of the largest universities of Georgia. Methods A cross-sectional survey was carried out in 2018 by web-based anonymous questionnaires among international and local students at the school of health sciences (UoG). Data was obtained on self reported physical health conditions, dietary patterns, physical Activity, sleep, study routine, smoking, alcohol and drug consumption, sexual life and stress factors. Results 112 local and 50 international students of UoG from more than 10 countries participated in online survey. 77% of local and 37% of international participants were female. Students reported health problems related to digestion (43% local, 23% int), musculoskeletal system (20% local, 33% int), sleep (62% local, 43% int ), skin, hair and nail (29% local -28% int) after attending university. 22% of international students reported to start smoking after coming to Georgia and 50% evaluated own stress level as 7 out of 10 point scale. Moderate positive correlation was found between stress and health problems among international students (r = 0.447, p = 0.005). As a main stress factors international students indicated study routine, homesickness, sleep and financial difficulties. Conclusions Survey results indicate that social and physical environment changes as well as busy time schedule can be led to different health problems, and lifestyle changes among international students of UoG. Hence, health promotion campaigns, even among students of health sciences might play supportive role. Key messages 22% of international students of UoG reported to start smoking after coming to Georgia and 50% evaluated own stress level as 7 out of 10. There is a need of health promotion campaigns, even among students of health sciences.