Health-seeking behavior is a fundamental determinant of individual and community health because it reflects the decisions and actions taken to maintain health, prevent illness, and obtain appropriate healthcare services. Among university populations, health-seeking behavior has become increasingly important due to the unique physical, psychological, academic, and social challenges experienced during higher education. University students are frequently exposed to academic stress, irregular lifestyles, inadequate nutrition, insufficient physical activity, and mental health concerns, all of which influence their willingness to seek professional healthcare and adopt preventive health practices. Developing positive health-seeking behaviors during this stage of life contributes not only to improved immediate well-being but also to the establishment of lifelong healthy habits.
The present study examines health-seeking behavior among university populations and explores the factors that influence healthcare utilization and preventive health practices. A quantitative descriptive research design was employed using a structured questionnaire administered to university students. The study evaluates participants\' healthcare awareness, utilization of medical services, preventive health behaviors, access to health information, and attitudes toward professional healthcare. The findings indicate that students demonstrating higher levels of health awareness are more likely to seek timely medical consultation, participate in preventive healthcare services, practice self-care behaviors, and maintain healthier lifestyles. The study highlights the importance of strengthening campus health education, improving access to healthcare services, and promoting evidence-based health communication to encourage positive health-seeking behavior among university students.