2012-12-31-世界卫生组织-2013_GSHS_Country_Report_El_Salvador_48页_535kb

Executive Summary

The Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) conducted in El Salvador in 2013 assessed the health behaviors, risk factors, and protective factors among adolescents aged 13-15 years, grades 7-9. This was the first GSHS in El Salvador, involving 41 schools and 1915 students with an 88% response rate. The survey monitored dietary habits, physical activity, hygiene, substance use, mental health, sexual behavior, violence, and knowledge on health issues.

Key Findings Overview

• Nutritional Behaviors: Overweight and obesity affected 38.8% of students, while fruit and vegetable intake was low. High consumption of fast food and sugary drinks was common.
• Physical Activity: Only 20.8% met recommended physical activity guidelines (60 minutes daily for 5+ days), more so in male students.
• Alcohol Use: Alcohol consumption was prevalent (36.3%), with early initiation, risky drinking patterns, and associations with unprotected sex.
• Drug Use: 11% of students used drugs, frequently started before age 14, with enojo (anger) as a primary motivation.
• Mental Health: High levels of suicide ideation (13.7%) and attempts were reported, with fewer females sought for help.
• Sexual Behavior: Early sexual initiation occurred in 22.7% of students, with inadequate protection (70% used condoms last time).
• Violence and Bullying: High rates of physical attacks (18.5%), serious injuries (38%), and bullying (22.6%), with significant school-related incidents.
• Protective Factors: Some family support was noted (e.g., 56% of parents monitor homework), but less than 76% respect student privacy.

Overall, the results highlight significant health risks, including obesity, mental health disorders, and substance abuse, while noting gaps in education and prevention. These issues require urgent attention and coordinated efforts to reduce health risks and promote well-being.

Conclusions

• The survey findings provide crucial data for health policy, indicating a need for improved nutrition programs, physical education, substance abuse prevention, and mental health support.
• Family involvement and school interventions are critical for addressing protective factors.
• Further periodic surveys are essential to track trends and evaluate interventions.

Key Recommendations

• Implement school-based programs for healthy eating, physical activity, and substance-free lifestyles.
• Strengthen family engagement in education and health promotion.
• Enhance mandatory sexual and health education.
• Conduct periodic GSHS surveys to monitor trends and guide policies.
• Improve access to healthcare services for adolescents and address mental health and violence prevention.