FREQUENCY AND SELF-REPORTED ADVERSE EFFECTS OF ENERGY DRINK CONSUMPTION AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY FROM PESHAWAR

Abstract

Background: University students are increasingly turning to energy drinks, and the use of these beverages has been associated with academic pressure, peer influence, and lifestyle habits within the context of this particular demographic. These drinks have been linked to multiple negative health outcomes, but. Knowing how, why, and the health implications of their use is important to inform student health initiatives. Objectives: To determine the frequency of energy drink consumption among university students, assess the self-reported adverse effects, and explore the reasons behind their use. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in different universities of Peshawar. A structured self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from a cross-sectional survey of 400 university students. Participants were assigned to either frequent (n=185) or infrequent (n=120) users. Data were analysed using SPSS version 22. Descriptive statistics are displayed as frequencies and percentages, and chi-square tests were used to determine associations with a p-value of <0.05 considered significant. Results: 305 participants reported the use of energy drinks. Frequent consumption was more common among males (67.6%) and hostel residents (56.8%). Sleep disturbance (67.6%), headache (59.5%), and palpitations (45.9%) were significantly more prevalent in frequent consumers compared to infrequent users. The most cited reasons for consumption were to stay awake (42.6%) and for fun (44.2%), both showing significant group differences (p<0.05). Conclusion: Energy drink consumption is common among university students, particularly males and hostel residents. Frequent use is significantly associated with adverse health effects. Awareness programs are needed to educate students about the potential risks of excessive energy drink consumption.