Health care practices, problems, and needs of young adult women.

A study of 308 midwestern college women was undertaken to ascertain their health care practices, problems, and needs. Specific areas investigated were smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use; gynecologic health practices and problems; nutrition, exercise, and coping strategies; and physical illness and disabilities. The majority of young women in this study appeared to be in good health. Although there were few negative health factors, those factors identified have significance for long‐term health. Problems were identified in the areas of nutrition, gynecologic health practices, and coping strategies. This survey pointed out the need for further study of practices that influence the health of young women.