Self reported Knowledge, Attitude and Consumption of Sugar sweetened Beverages among Undergraduate Dental Students at KIDS Dental College, Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh

Dr. Priyanka Gollapalli; Dr. Naveen Kumar Baratam; Hyandavi Balla

Volume : VII, Issue : I, January - 2018

Self reported Knowledge, Attitude and Consumption of Sugar sweetened Beverages among Undergraduate Dental Students at KIDS Dental College, Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh

Dr. Priyanka Gollapalli, Dr. Naveen Kumar Baratam, Hyandavi Balla

Abstract :

Aims and Objectives: This study is to assess the knowledge, attitude and consumption of sugar‑sweetened beverages (SSBs) and its association with body mass index (BMI) among undergraduate dental students.

Materials and Methods: A cross‑sectional design was used and the study was conducted at KIDS Dental College. Undergraduate dental students (n= 344) registered in 2017 were invited to participate. A self‑administered questionnaire was used to elicit the necessary information. Data analysis included frequencies and correlations using Chi‑square tests. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results: The response rate was 88% (301) and the mean age was 22.3 years. The majority were female (72%) and 70% of respondents had an acceptable level of knowledge on the types of SSBs and possible health conditions if consumed excessively. Almost half (46%) had a positive attitude toward the consumption of SSBs. Clinical students had a significantly higher level of knowledge compared to nonclinical students (P= 0.03). Those with poor knowledge and attitude consumed significantly more SSBs (P< 0.01) than those with higher levels of knowledge and attitude. Males were significantly more obese and overweight than females (P< 0.01). There was an association between the amount of sugar consumed from SSBs and the BMI.

Conclusions: The knowledge and attitude toward SSBs was acceptable. There was a significant correlation between the consumption of SSBs and the BMI.