Abstract

Background: Caffeinated drinks are widely consumed among students for their perceived benefits, such as improved alertness and productivity. However, overconsumption is associated with adverse health effects. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practices of fourth-year medical students regarding caffeinated drinks and explore associated factors influencing their consumption habits.
Methodology: Employing a convenient sampling technique, 174 fourth-year MBBS students were recruited for the study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on students’ backgrounds, knowledge, and practices related to caffeinated drinks. Associations between background variables and knowledge/practice were analyzed using the chi-square test, with a significance level of p≤0.05.
Results: Students demonstrated good knowledge about common caffeinated drinks such as tea (86%), coffee (92%), and carbonated drinks (64%), but 88% were unaware of caffeine in health drinks. Females were more knowledgeable about coffee (p=0.018) and caffeinated drink ingredients (p=0.003). Students with doctor parents relied on the internet (p=0.027) and billboards (p=0.030) for information and associated caffeine consumption with improved productivity (p=0.011). Boarders consumed more carbonated drinks (p=0.031) and reported nausea with increased intake (p=0.031), while non-daily consumers experienced headaches (p=0.001) and irritation (p=0.022).
Conclusion: Despite awareness of adverse effects, medical students continue to consume caffeinated drinks, often associating them with productivity benefits. Targeted health education is needed to address misconceptions and promote balanced consumption.