Self-evaluation of behaviours related to the health of Polish young adults

Introduction
Taking action that is conducive to health can shape healthy behavior.The aim of this study is to analyze and evaluate selected behaviors related to the health of young adults in connection with selected economic and sociodemographic variables.

Material and methods
A total of 500 people were selected for the study, including 184 university students and 316 high school students aged 18 years and over. The research method was a diagnostic survey, and a survey and indirect measurement were the techniques used. An original questionnaire created by the author and the standardized Inventory of Health Behavior was the research tool for the purposes of this work.

Results
Women were more likely to declare normal eating habits than men (m = 3.3590 vs m = 3.2241). The university students demonstrated a higher level of preventative behaviors than the high-schoolers (m = 3.3078 vs m = 3.1382). The respondents living in the countryside presented a higher level of preventative behavior than those from small towns (p = 0.01). It was found that one’s place of residence had a positive impact on one’s psychological attitude (p = 0.011).

Conclusions
Women declare proper eating habits to a greater degree than men. University students and rural residents are more likely to take preventative measures. University students and people with a very good financial situation more often follow good health practices. Rural residents and people declaring a good financial situation have a higher level of positive mental attitude.