Work

Association between energy drink consumption, and substance use among adolescents: a cross sectional study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background Energy drinks (ED), which contain high doses of caffeine, are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among young people who may be unaware of the potential risks involved. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of energy drink consumption among 12th-grade students, as well as the relationship between it and substance use, smoking, alcohol, depression, and anxiety. Methods The study utilized a cross-sectional research approach. Data was collected using a self-reported questionnaire that included sociodemographic data, substance use-related questions, smoking and drinking factors, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results A total of 1,083 12th-grade students were recruited, revealing a high prevalence of energy drink consumption among them (52.5%). Also, the findings showed that participants whose father’s education was more than 12 years (AOR: 1.652, p < 0.001), participants who smoked cigarettes (AOR: 2.240, p < 0.004), participants who drank alcohol (AOR: 2.374, p < 0.005), and students who used waterpipe tobacco smoking (AOR: 5.401, p < 0.001) were more likely to drink energy drinks. No association was found between energy drinks and substance use. Conclusion Our study found that energy drink consumption is high among 12th-grade students, particularly those who smoke cigarettes, use waterpipe tobacco, or drink alcohol. Our findings highlight the pressing need to raise youth awareness and educate them about the negative health consequences of energy drink consumption.

Source: Frontiers in Nutrition

DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2025.1709218

Authors: Maisa Nabulsi, Muna Ahmead

Institution: Al-Quds University

Language: English

Topic: Coffee research and impacts

Subfield: Pharmacology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801