Analysis of changes in health behavior, health status and medical use during COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, which began in 2020, ended this year on May 2023. The purpose of this study was to examine the changes in health during the COVID-19 pandemic by dividing them into health behavior, medical use, and health status, and to suggest measures for effective health management. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an increase in strength training and walking, while there was no significant increase in unmet medical needs. There was an increase in obesity rates and prevalence of depressive disorders, both of which negatively impact health. Changes in health status and healthcare utilization also varied by gender, age, occupation, and income. During the infectious disease pandemic, it is necessary to ensure the public's health in various aspects and support health care for vulnerable groups, and to examine whether health changes during the COVID-19 pandemic continue after the end of pandemic.