Identification of Health Risk Factors Among Undergraduate University Students

Authors

  • Anna Gupta
  • Sharon McMahon
  • Gurpal Gurpal Sandhu

Abstract

Health Hazard Appraisal (HHA), also described as Health Risk Appraisal (HRA), is a method of estimating an individual's chance of becoming ill or dying from selected deseases within a defined period of time, usually 10 years, based on the individual's given set of characteristics. The individual's health behaviours and characteristics are compared to mortality statistis and epidemiological data. The primary purpose of HHA is to help the individual become aware of his or her own identifiable health risk factors that may lead to illness or premature death. Neff and Landrum (1983) have found that the act of administering part of a questionnaire on alcohol use significantly reduced recidivism in a sample of drinking drivers. These two researchers suggest that simply completing the questionnaire may force people to make negative conclusions about their own actions, and may promote a private, voluntary decision to change (p.4). Thus, HHA may also be considered to be an assessment and health education tool, designed to motivate individuals to change personal lifestyle and habits that are considered risky to their life and health.

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Published

1985-04-13

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Section

Articles