Survey of College Students Health

A survey conducted by Ed Ellinger, M.D. of the University of Minnesota (funded in part by BC/BS) reveals multiple health risks faced by today's college students. Almost 10,000 students in Minnesota participated in the study.

Some of the findings:
1) 27 percent of students had been diagnosed with a mental illness in their lifetime. 15 percent had had such a diagnosis in the past 12 months.
2) 38.5 percent of students were overweight or obese.
3) 28.7 percent reported excessive internet use. 41.8 percent reported that internet use affected their academic performance.
4) 9.4 percent of all undergraduates surveyed did not have health insurance.
5) 70.5 percent had used alcohol in the preceding month. 37.5 percent had engaged in high risk drinking in the preceding 2 weeks.