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.