How well are university students? Findings from a multicenter quantitative study in Türkiye, 2025

Abstract Background Higher education institutions have a significant role in health promotion and disease prevention among young people. However, campus-based services vary between universities and many students are not aware of existing services including psychosocial support. This study aimed to assess perceived health and well-being of university students, as well as their awareness and use of health services in higher education institutions in Türkiye. Methods The study was ethically approved and conducted by a consortium of senior and young researchers as an online anonymous survey among university students from more than 40 universities in Türkiye. Out of 519 participating students, 505 valid responses were analyzed using descriptive, bivariate and multivariate quantitative analysis. Results Of the students from different disciplines, two thirds were female and one third were living with their family. Only 47% ranked their perceived health status as good. The percentages of students who experienced the following symptoms frequently or very frequently in the last 12 months were 48% (of the students) for sleep problems, 47% for concentration problems, 46% for back and/or neck ache, 35% for depressive mood, 33% for headache, 22% for gastrointestinal symptoms, 13% for tachycardia, and 11% for dizziness. One fifth had a chronic health condition diagnosed by a physician, and were on prescribed medication on a regular basis. Ever-use of tobacco, alcohol, and cannabis were 60%, 59%, and 8%, respectively. Despite these figures, 46% were not aware of any health services on their campus and only 13% ever used any student health services. Conclusions Although based on convenience sampling, the findings indicate an unfavorable perceived health status for university students. Despite high percentage of chronic conditions and unhealthy behaviors, use of campus-based services is extremely limited, showing the need for stronger public health efforts at the higher education level. Key messages • Higher education institutions have a critical role in health promotion and disease prevention among young people. • Public health professionals should advocate for stronger student health services including health education intervetions on university campuses.