Health beat: Six tips for college health and safety

Going to college is an exciting time in a young person's life. It's the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. College is a time for new experiences, both inside and outside the classroom. Here are a few pointers for college students on staying safe and healthy.

1. Maintain a healthy lifestyle starting with diet and exercise. From 2007 through 2010, 23 percent of adults age 18 to 24 were obese. The amount of food needed to eat from each food group depends on age, sex and level of physical activity. Follow an eating plan with correct portions of the basic food groups. Also be aware that beverages may be adding extra calories. Adults need at least two hours and 30 minutes of exercise each week.

2. Sexual assault is a particular problem on college campuses. One in five women have been sexually assaulted while in college and 80 percent of female victims experience their first rape before the age of 25. Students should know their rights, and seek help immediately if they or someone they know is the victim of violence.

3. Sexually transmitted infections can be prevented. They are also treatable, and many are curable. Half of all new sexually transmitted diseases occur among young people age 15 to 24. College students and others who are sexually active should get tested to know their status and protect themselves and their sexual partners. Abstinence, not having sex, is the most reliable way to avoid infection.

4. Binge drinking is defined as having four or more drinks for women or five or more drinks for men over a short period of time. About 90 percent of the alcohol consumed by people younger than 21 in the United States is in the form of binge drinks. Binge drinking is a factor that increases the chances for risky sexual behavior, unintended pregnancy, HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, car crashes, violence and alcohol poisoning. Get the facts about alcohol use and health and learn what can be done to prevent binge drinking.

5. Smoking harms nearly every organ of the body and causes many diseases such as cancer, and heart and respiratory diseases. In 2012, 17.3 percent of adults ages 18 to 24 were cigarette smokers.

6. Managing stress and maintaining good balance is important for college students. A few ways to manage stress are to get enough sleep, avoid drugs and alcohol, connect socially and seek help from a medical or mental health professional, including if depressed or experiencing distress. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among people 15 to 24 years old. If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

If you or a friend is struggling with a health or safety problem:

* Talk to someone you trust for support.

* Visit the college health center or local clinic or hospital.

* Contact the campus or community police if your or someone else's safety is threatened.

Health Beat is a weekly spotlight on a wide range of health issues. The information contained here was provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. View the CDC features online at cdc.gov/features.