Physical Activity Patterns and Perceptions Among Veteran and Non-Veteran University Health Profession Students

Background Physical inactivity is a leading cause of disease and disability. Increasing levels of physical activity in patients and clients in healthcare may help increase physical activity levels in the public. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare physical activity patterns and perceptions of benefits and risks of physical activity of non-veteran and veteran university health profession students in Dallas, Texas.Methods A survey measured physical activity patterns and perceptions of benefits and risks of physical activity in veteran and non-veteran university health profession students.Results After preliminary testing, 19 (32.8%) veterans and 39 (67.2%) non-veterans met the inclusion criteria (Total N = 58). Most respondents believed that health professionals should serve as role models for their patients regarding health related behaviors (98.3%), provide information about the risks and benefits of physical activity to their patients (100%), and receive specific training on the risks and benefits of physical activity (100%). Over half reported having received formal training on physical activity risks and benefits to share with patients during their coursework (63.8%).Discussion Increasing the public’s knowledge of the risks and benefits of physical activity by providing health education, training, and guidance to both non-veteran and veteran health profession students will help prevent and decrease disease related to physical inactivity to improve public health efforts.Translation to Health Education Practice Health Education Specialists (HES) can be partners with university faculty in creating or revising courses on physical activity and chronic disease.