Differences in Motivation to Adopt A Healthy Lifestyle Between University Students With and Without A Family History Of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is the most prevalent non-communicable disease (NCD) and ranks as the third leading cause of death in Indonesia. One of the most effective strategies for preventing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is adopting a healthy lifestyle. Motivation plays a crucial role in driving behavioral change, as it influences an individual's compliance with health-promoting behaviors. This study aimed to examine the relationship and differences in motivation to adopt a healthy lifestyle among university students with and without a family history of T2DM in higher education institutions in Kampar Regency. This was an analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design, conducted from May 23 to June 10, 2024. The study involved 351 respondents from two higher education institutions in Kampar, selected through consecutive sampling. Data were collected using an electronic questionnaire via Google Forms and analyzed using univariate and bivariate (Chi-square) tests. The findings revealed that the majority of respondents (67.2%, n=236) were not motivated to adopt a healthy lifestyle, while 32.8% (n=115) were motivated. Statistical analysis showed a significant relationship between family history of T2DM and motivation to adopt a healthy lifestyle among students (p-value = 0.000, p ≤ 0.05). Students with a family history of T2DM were more likely to be motivated to lead a healthy lifestyle compared to those without such a history. These findings highlight the importance of implementing targeted health promotion and education programs in universities, especially for students who lack motivation or do not have a family history of T2DM.