PREVALENCE, PATTERNS, AND SELF-REPORTED HEALTH CONSEQUENCES OF SODA DRINK CONSUMPTION AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Soda drinks are widely consumed worldwide despite strong evidence linking them to adverse health outcomes such as obesity, diabetes, elevated blood pressure, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular disease. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of soda drink consumption among medical students and assess self-reported health consequences.

Materials & Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among students from all academic years at Rehman Medical College Peshawer (n = 138). A structured online questionnaire assessed soda consumption frequency, duration, perceived health effects, and demographic information. BMI was calculated for participants with available height and weight data. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U tests, Spearman correlations, and logistic regression for adjusted associations.

Results: Of 138 respondents, 91 (65.9%) reported regular consumption and 33 (23.9%) reported daily consumption. Most frequently cited health effects included weight gain and dental problems. BMI did not differ significantly between consumers and non-consumers (median ≈ 21.9; p = 0.827), nor did years of consumption correlate with BMI (ρ =−0.022, p = 0.814). Adjusted analysis indicated a borderline significant association between daily consumption and dental problems (p ≈ 0.05).

Conclusion: Soda consumption remains highly prevalent among medical students, despite awareness of associated risks. Strategies targeting behavioral change and supportive policy measures are recommended.