Most college students are busy juggling schoolwork, a job and a social life, and some forget to add their personal health and well-being to the list, according to the LSU Student Health Center.
Health trends like dieting and tanning, eating disorders and drunk driving have been prominent on campus this year.
According to the National College Health Assessment II, released in spring 2011, the University’s drinking and driving rates are double the national average. While 31.5 percent of LSU students said they drove after drinking alcohol, 15.2 percent of students did nationally.
Kathy Saichuk, health promotion coordinator, said there is no safe amount of alcohol to consume before getting behind the wheel.
Drinking and driving isn’t the only dangerous trend observed by University students.
Some might say beauty is only skin deep, but this phrase hasn’t stopped University students from taking health risks to ensure their appearance is up to par.
Decades ago, tan skin signified being a poor laborer, and it was not until after World War II that darker skin showed a sign of wealth, Saichuk said.
Although frequent exposure to UV rays increases the risk of developing melanoma, which is the most common cancer among women ages 25 to 32, some University students still take that risk.
Katelyn Gross, mass communication freshman, said she feels better when she has darker skin.
“Whatever you do when you are young, your body will let you know you did it when you get a little older,” Saichuk said about tanning.
The University also recognized National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, which highlights the severity of eating disorders in today’s culture and provides positive encouragement for people struggling with body image.
Laurel Keys, business management senior, said she turned to the Student Health Center for help when she struggled with her eating disorder.
“I was able to go in there for free and not have to ask my parents about it or talk to them about it. I was able to get help for myself without having to talk to a bunch of people about it,” Keys said.
Other students turned to the UREC for health guidance, as it saw an influx of people in the early spring, including several who hoped to get in shape before spring break rolled around.
Marketing freshman Caroline Pennison said dieting before spring break has become a norm for college students.
“Spring is a time to show off and prepare for summer, when no one wears clothes,” said Taara King, mass communication sophomore and UREC employee.
 
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Contact Jacy Baggett at [email protected]