Health perception and consideration of future consequences as predictors of healthy lifestyle behaviors among young adults in India

Purpose Understanding and promoting healthy lifestyle practices has been a pressing need of the hour, given the rising cases of non-communicable diseases globally. Although the concept of a healthy lifestyle has been a part of the literature for decades, a significant gap remains in understanding the psychological factors that determine a healthy lifestyle among the non-patient population in developing nations, such as India. Considering this, the present study aimed to understand the relationship between health perception, future consequence perspectives, and healthy lifestyle among young adults in India. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional study design was employed, and standardized measures were utilized to investigate the study variables. The sample consisted of young adults aged 18–30 years residing in Southern India (n = 655; male = 252; female = 403). The data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistical tests. Findings The likelihood of involvement in a healthy lifestyle increased with a better health perception (β = 0.26, 99% CI [0.27, 0.49]) and consideration of the future consequences of one’s present behavior (β = 0.15, 99% CI [0.14, 0.41]). Additionally, healthy lifestyle behaviors varied by gender, and health perception differed according to body mass index (BMI) categories. Originality/value This study bridges the gap in understanding the key determinants of healthy lifestyle practices among young adults in India, paving the way for the development of effective health-promoting interventions for this age group. This study highlights the importance of health promotion and education strategies in promoting a healthy lifestyle at a young age.