College students experience numerous challenges as they assume novel responsibilities and choices associated with residing on campus. Although the transition away from home and parents is associated with weight gain, sedentary behavior, and less-nutritious diets, few obesity prevention studies have targeted college adults. Because of their familiarity with the Internet, college-age adults (18-24) may be more receptive to web-based interventions as compared to traditional approaches. Furthermore, personalized interventions are likely to be more effective than generalized health and diet information if they are tailored to a student’s level of interest to make lifestyle changes. Research is needed to explore the efficacy of applying digital technologies to tailored weight loss/weight gain prevention programs among our society’s youngest adults.
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