Influencing Factors of Behavior for Reducing Exposure to Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals and Demand for Related Education

Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing university students’ behavior in reducing exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and the demand for related education. This study utilized a descriptive survey. Data were collected from 192 students in Busan, South Korea, from 1 September to 31 December 2020 using an online questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-test, one-way analysis of variance, Pearson’s correlation coefficient test, and multiple regression. A positive correlation was observed between knowledge about EDCs and perceived benefits, perceived barriers, and behavior for reducing exposure to EDCs. Perceived benefits had a negative correlation with perceived barriers. Factors affecting students’ behavior for reducing exposure to EDCs were age, enrollment in a health-related department, regular exercise, medication, and intake of healthy foods. Moreover, participants preferred to receive relevant information through a variety of educational resources and online teaching methods, favoring videos and social media, but not group discussions or individual counseling. They also preferred lecture-type education and the use of pamphlets, fliers, newspapers, and magazines. Thus, reducing EDC exposure implies encouraging regular exercise, appropriate health medications, and healthy food consumption; it is also necessary to make educational content accessible to college students via the Internet and mobile phones. Future studies should analyze the effect of reducing EDCs within the body through individual behaviors, to improve people’s physical, emotional, and socio-psychological health status.