2010-12-31-世界卫生组织-2011_GSHS_Fact_Sheet_Belize_2页_42kb

Belize 2011 Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) Summary for Students Aged 13-15

Overview

The 2011 Belize GSHS surveyed students in grades std 6 and form 1-3 using a cluster sampling method with a 97% school response rate and 91% student response rate, involving 2112 respondents. The survey covered health behaviors including alcohol use, diet, drug use, hygiene, mental health, physical activity, protective factors, sexual behaviors, and violence.

Key Findings

• Alcohol Use: About 28% of students drank alcohol in the past 30 days; first use typically occurred before age 14, with higher prevalence among boys.
• Dietary Behaviors: High rates of overweight (36%) and obesity (13%); carbonated soft drink consumption was common (67%).
• Drug Use: Approximately 11% used marijuana; first drug use often before age 14, mostly boys.
• Hygiene: Few students brushed teeth daily (2%) or washed hands after using the toilet (2%).
• Mental Health: Significant issues with suicidal ideation (15%) and attempts (13%); fewer than half had close friends (11-15%).
• Physical Activity: Only 29% engaged in enough daily activity; sitting for three or more hours was common (37%); PE class attendance was low (20-22%).
• Protective Factors: Students rarely missed classes without permission (13%); parental understanding was common (46-48%).
• Sexual Behaviors: About one-quarter had sexual intercourse; first experience often before age 14, with high condom use rates among some groups.
• Violence and Unintentional Injury: Nearly half reported physical fights in the past year; violence and injuries were prevalent, with bullying affecting 31%.

The data indicate significant challenges in student health and well-being, with notable gender and behavioral disparities. For further details, contact Englebert Emmanuel.