According to the World Health Organization (WHO), chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 74% of deaths worldwide [1, 2]. Several factors have been associated with NCDs, unhealthy eating habits, tobacco and alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity being the most extensively studied risk factors [2]. Unhealthy diet and physical inactivity, often linked to lifestyle choices, are among the leading risk factors for non-communicable diseases [3]. Chronic diseases are commonly caused by long-term unhealthy habits and behaviors [4].

University students have been identified as a high-risk population for NCDs [5]. This phase of life represents a transitional period during which students develop habits that can influence their health throughout adulthood. As they gain more independence from their parents, they assume greater control over their daily choices regarding food, sleep, health management, physical activity, and engagement in harmful habits like smoking or excessive drinking [6]. University students face numerous challenges as they navigate the transition from adolescence to adulthood. During this critical phase, adopting and maintaining healthy behaviors becomes crucial for their overall well-being, academic success, and future quality of life.

The university years are considered a time when students may be exposed to health-related problems. They encounter new experiences, increased independence, changes in social circles, academic responsibilities, and greater accessibility to alcohol or drugs [7]. Studies have shown low percentages of health-promoting behaviors among university students [8].

Moreover, university students, who have recently entered adulthood, often overlook their health due to their relative youth and well-being. Consequently, they are more prone to engaging in behaviors that pose a risk to their health, such as inadequate physical activity, unhealthy eating habits, alcohol consumption, and smoking. Additionally, the behaviors of university students are highly influenced by their peers and environment [9].

The habits formed during this period can have lasting effects on their health in later years [10]. Furthermore, they are the leaders, decision-makers, and parents of tomorrow [11]. A healthy lifestyle developed during this time can lay the foundation for better health in middle age, reducing the prevalence of suboptimal health and delaying the onset of chronic diseases [9].

Empowering university students with healthy life skills enables them to make informed decisions, adopt healthy behaviors, and actively promote their own health and that of their communities. These skills encompass a range of abilities that enable individuals to adopt and maintain healthy behaviors. By developing and practicing healthy life skills, individuals can effectively manage stress, enhance self-care routines, and overcome challenges in their daily lives [12]. This empowerment contributes to improved health outcomes and overall well-being.

Furthermore, the university environment exposes students to diverse peer networks, making peer influence and social norms powerful determinants of health behaviors. Students often emulate the behaviors and habits exhibited by their peers, leading to either the adoption or rejection of healthy behaviors. Research has shown that positive peer influence and perceived social norms are positively associated with healthy dietary choices among university students [13].

Therefore, it is necessary to make efforts to improve health-promoting behaviors among university students. Promoting healthy behaviors is crucial for their overall well-being, academic success, and long- term health outcomes. Understanding their healthy life skills, behaviors, and related factors is essential in designing effective strategies to support and empower students in adopting and maintaining healthy lifestyles. By doing so, we can contribute to their well-being and create a healthier society.

University students with unhealthy lifestyle constitute a high-risk group for chronic non-communicable diseases. The aim of this study was determined healthy life skills in university students. Evaluating and developing healthy behaviors during this period is very important for future health outcomes. It is thought that the results of this study will provide essential data for programs to be planned to raise students' awareness about healthy lifestyle behaviors and increase their quality of life.

Questions expected to be answered in the research;

What are the identifying characteristics of university students?

What is the healthy living skills scale score of university students?

Is there a relationship between the descriptive characteristics of university students and their healthy living skills scale scores?