Healthy lifestyles among students of radiology and diagnostic imaging technology Gustavo Díaz1,2,3* y Marlly Rojas1,2

Gustavo Díaz, Dirección de Investigación, Fundación Tecnológica Autónoma de Bogotá; Grupo de investigación Diseño, Computación, Competitividad y Salud FABA-UDES; Facultad de Ciencias, Programa de Nutrición y Dietética, Universidad FUCS. Bogotá, Colombia
Marlly Rojas, Dirección de Investigación, Fundación Tecnológica Autónoma de Bogotá; Grupo de investigación Diseño, Computación, Competitividad y Salud FABA-UDES; Bogotá, Colombia

Introduction: The combination of ionizing radiation exposure and unhealthy lifestyle habits may increase the risk of chronic diseases among radiology professionals. Objective: To describe health behaviors and modifiable risk factors among students of Radiologic and Diagnostic Imaging Technology. Material and methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in 93 first- and second-year students. The validated CEVJU-R questionnaire was applied, and differences by sex and academic year were analyzed. Results: Sedentary behavior (71%), alcohol consumption (83%), and cigarette use (27%) were highly prevalent in radiology students. Women reported lower levels of physical activity (39 vs. 18%; p = 0.058) but higher use of sunscreen (63 vs. 20%; p = 0.001) and contraceptives (57 vs. 21%; p = 0.003). Men showed a higher prevalence of smoking (41 vs. 14%; p = 0.015). Overall, 56% reported regular consumption of fruits and vegetables, and 43% achieved adequate hydration. Poor sleep quality was observed, particularly among second-year students (p = 0.013). Conclusions: The findings reveal inadequate lifestyle patterns that may amplify the health risks associated with occupational radiation exposure. Comprehensive university-based interventions are needed to promote healthy lifestyles among radiology students.

Keywords: Healthy lifestyle. Radiology. University students. Risk factors. Cancer. Health behavior.