Are young people in the Armed Forces of Malta healthier than their civilian counterparts?

Abstract

This dissertation aims at gathering information about the life style of young people aged between eighteen and thirty- four years of age, that serve in the Armed Forces of Malta. It also seeks to find out whether the problem of overweight and obesity is present within the ranks of the Armed Forces and if it compares to that of the general public. This dissertation is also intended to shed light on the usage of alcohol and tobacco products by these respondents serving in the Armed Forces of Malta. When analyzing data it transpired that young people in the military are a reproduction of the young people in society in general. Hence the problem of overweight and obesity is also present within the Armed Forces of Malta when the latter should be an example of how young people should lead a healthier life style. A youth worker employed within the Armed Forces ranks could help the younger generation by providing Health Education and Health Promotion.