Environmental Health Literacy of University Students and Affecting Factors
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21034396Keywords:
Environment, Environmental Health, University Students, LiteracyAbstract
Objective: This study was conducted to determine the levels of environmental health literacy among university students and to examine the sociodemographic factors influencing these levels.
Material and Methods: This descriptive study was conducted with 510 students enrolled at the Harran University School of Health Services. Data were collected using an information form prepared by the researchers and the Environmental Health Literacy Scale. Descriptive statistics, the t-test for independent groups, and ANOVA were used to analyze the data.
Results: Students’ levels of environmental health literacy were generally found to be high. The total scores and behavioral subscale scores of female students, individuals aged 21 and older, and students enrolled in environmental health education were found to be statistically significantly higher (p<0.05). A significant relationship was found between income status and perceived environmental exposure (p<0.05). Variables such as grade level, place of residence, parents’ education level, information source, and living arrangements did not result in significant differences.
Discussion and Conclusion: It has been determined that university students have a high level of environmental health literacy and that certain demographic variables influence this level. Based on these findings, it is recommended that environmental health topics be integrated into educational curricula and that awareness-raising programs targeting young people be expanded.
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