Survey of Energy Drink Consumption and Adverse Health Effects: A Sample of University Students in the United Arab Emirates

Abstract

Aims: The study examined energy drink consumption patterns, reasons for use, and the brand preferences of university students. Based on participant characteristics, the variation in use was determined including the impact on university performance in terms if grades and quality of health. The study also determined whether high frequency of consumption was correlated with negative physical health symptoms. Study Design: A cross sectional study design was implemented. Place and Duration of Study: At a higher education institution in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the survey study was conducted between November 2016 and January 2017. Methodology: Among four campuses, a 30% random sample of 1,100 Emirati students were surveyed and 522 completed the Energy Drink Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using IBM-SPSS and frequency tables, cross-tabulations, and graphs; including chi-square and phi statistics, t-tests, hedge’s g, and spearman correlations. Results: Two-thirds of participants were 18 to 20 years of age, in year 2 of university, in good health, and from Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Energy drinks were consumed by 85.1%. Thus, 54.9% drank 1 to 8 cans a month, 13.2% drank 3 to 4 a week, and 16.7% drank 1 or more a day. Daily users were more likely males. The most consumed brands were identified and the reasons for consumption varied. Those consuming 1 to 3+ a day had a “slight to moderately” lower Grade Point Average (GPA).Statistically significant correlations were found between drinking 1 to 3+ a day and experiencing headaches, blurred vision, nervousness, excessive thirst, and difficulties sleeping. Conclusion: Young adults should not consume energy drinks daily and excessively because of the likelihood of negative side effects. Students need to exercise caution when considering using energy drinks and strive to make healthier lifestyle choices to maximize their health. Public health information plays a vital role in raising awareness, altering behavior, and reducing risks. Student support services in higher education are important for at risk students with excessive daily energy drink usage and potential dependency. Stronger future research is recommended to help quantify the risk of disease from specific substances found in energy drinks and their long-term impact on health.