Identification of Health Risks in a Young Adult Population

This study reports the health risks identified and health promotion activities implemented by nurse practitioners in a self-defined well young adult population. The health status of a random selection of 100 individuals who had received a health examination at a nurse practitioner clinic was studied through the use of an audit tool. The typical individual seeking a checkup was White, female, single, and under 30 years of age. The major risk factors were: lack of regular exercise, inadequate or overnutrition, smoking, lack of regular health screening (pap smear, breast exam, and blood pressure), and high reports of job and relationship stress. The study supports the concept that the focuses of such a service should be on the assessment of lifestyle and personal habits, not extensive biomedical screening, and on health promotion through health education and lifestyle modification.