Energy Drink Consumption Among Kabul University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study of Prevalence, Patterns, Awareness, and Adverse Health Effects

Abstract Background : Energy drinks are stimulant-containing beverages, primarily formulated with caffeine and marketed to enhance mental and physical performance. Unlike coffee, tea, or caffeinated soft drinks, these products are specifically designed as functional stimulants. Purpose : This study aimed to assess university students’ awareness of energy drinks and evaluate their consumption patterns, associated side effects, and reasons for use. Methods : This cross-sectional observational study was conducted from April to August 2023 at three major universities in Kabul, Afghanistan: Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Kabul Education University, and Kabul University. We distributed 401 questionnaires to students across these institutions, achieving a response rate of 96.76% (n=379 completed questionnaires). Thirteen students (3.24%) did not return their questionnaires. All collected data were entered and analyzed using SPSS software (version 21). Results: All participants were male, with ages ranging from 17 to 29 years (mean = 21.1 years; SD = 3.9). Energy drink consumption was reported by 89.97% of participants, of whom 41.34% were occasional users (less than one drink per week) and 56.59% were habitual consumers (3–4 drinks per week). Higher consumption (more than one can) was significantly associated with living alone ( P = 0.000) and daily coffee intake ( P = 0.005). The primary reasons for consumption included needing energy (33.66%, n = 169), enjoying the taste (24.90%, n = 125), and increased use during exams to improve alertness (12.35%, n = 62). There were no significant differences in energy drink consumption across academic years (P > 0.05). Most students recognized caffeine (86.8%) and sugar (89.97%) as key ingredients. Habitual consumers reported reducing sleep hours more frequently than occasional consumers (34.89% vs. 18.18%; P < 0.05) and were more likely to use it to aid studying/major projects (83.28% vs. 14.66%; P < 0.05). Adverse effects were reported by 67.44% ( n = 230), primarily palpitations (44.54%) and insomnia (21.56%). Conclusion: This study highlights the widespread consumption of energy drinks among university students. The primary motivations for consumption included boosting energy, enjoying the taste, and enhancing alertness during exams. More than half of the participants reported adverse effects, with the most common being palpitations and insomnia. Our findings emphasize the need for educational campaigns to raise awareness of potential health risks. Additionally, policymakers should reconsider legal regulations on the production, marketing, and advertising of energy drinks to mitigate excessive consumption and protect public health.