Behavioural risk factors clusters and their associations with self-reported burdens among university students in Finland

Controlling for socio-demographics, cluster membership was more influenced by students' perceptions of 'Relationships' + 'Needs', rather than academic difficulties of 'Studies' or unsecure 'Future'. Risk taking was more likely with relationship difficulties, isolation, and day-to-day problems (housing, financial situation, health) rather than academic load or concerns for future prospects. Preventive and intervention efforts tackling students' lifestyle behaviours need to consider programmes aimed at better relationship building/maintenance to prevent isolation, while mitigating 'on-the-ground' everyday challenges that students face.