Health-promoting Lifestyle and its Relationship with Examining Self-efficacy among Students of GONABAD University of Medical Sciences in 2019: a Descriptive Study

Introduction: Student life is one of the most crucial periods in terms of health-promoting behaviors. Given the significance of youth health in promoting the health of society and the fact that self-efficacy is a component of a healthy lifestyle, this study sought to evaluate the health-promoting lifestyle and self-efficacy of students at Gonabad University of Medical Sciences. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive, analytical study conducted in 2018-2019, a random sample of 173 students was selected. Data collection included a demographics form, the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II (HPLP II), and a self-efficacy questionnaire. The Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation coefficient, independent t, and one-way analysis of variance. Results: The average score of the health-promoting lifestyle was 58.22 ± 0.48. The students scored highest in spiritual growth, self-fulfillment, and interpersonal relationships, and lowest in physical activity. They had moderate self-efficacy (3.03 ± 0.40 . There was a statistically significant relationship between self-efficacy and the overall health-promoting lifestyle score and all of its subscales. Conclusion: Contrary to their self-efficacy, all students exhibited a poor health-promoting lifestyle. In terms of physical activity, health-promoting behaviors were unfavorable. Planned efforts are required to improve the students' health-promoting lifestyle.