Formation of preventive thinking in medicaluniversity residents through the implementationof healthy lifestyle princi ples

Background. The increasing prevalence of modifiable risk factors associated with an unhealthy lifestyle, combined with the influence of biological, social, and anthropogenic environmental factors, negatively affects health status and is a significant cause of chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Population-based and personalized preventive measures contribute to at least half of the success in reducing NCD incidence and mortality. It has been proven that modern, effective prevention programs yield tangible and intangible returns on investment within 5–10 years.
Objective. To assess the adherence to healthy lifestyle (HLS) principles among residents at Yaroslavl State Medical University.
Materials and methods. Between 2023 and 2024, a survey was conducted among 82 clinical residents, aged 25–35, in their first or second year of study across various medical specialties at Yaroslavl State Medical University. The «Structure of a Healthy Lifestyle for Students» questionnaire was used, which included sections on communication skills, physical activity, attitudes towards bad habits and sexual activity, hardening practices, vaccination, and dietary habits.
Results. The importance of adhering to HLS principles was acknowledged by the overwhelming majority of respondents (96 %). However, the study revealed that in daily practice, 56 % of residents demonstrated a moderate level of adherence, while 29 % showed a low level. Specific areas with low adherence included: regular exercise (only 19 %), periodic hardening practices (26 %), insufficient knowledge of substance abuse issues (46.3 %), and inadequate understanding of the risks associated with early pregnancy (34 %).
Conclusions. While the importance of core healthy lifestyle principles is recognized by most medical residents, their awareness and practices are insufficient for healthcare professionals who have graduated from a medical university. These findings highlight the need for active integration of comprehensive HLS programs into the daily training and education of medical residents.

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