DESCRIPTIVE STUDY TO ASSESS THE KNOWLEDGE ON JUNK FOOD CONSUMPTION AMONG STUDENTS AT SELECTED COLLEGE, HOSUR

Background of the Study: The rising consumption of junk food among adolescents and school-aged children has become a significant public health concern. Students are more likely to consume junk food because of their new found independence and opportunity to make their own choices, however they are budding adults who are still developing lifelong habits and may lack awareness of nutritional consequences. Frequent junk food consumption is linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, and other health hazards. Objectives of the Study: 1. To assess the knowledge on junk food consumption among students. 2. To determine the association between knowledge and demographic variables. Method: Non-experimental descriptive research design was adopted for the present study. One hundred and nineteen nursing students were selected by using a simple random technique. Administered a structured questionnaire. The data collected was analysed and interpreted based on descriptive statistics. Results: According to the findings, most students, a total of 56 (46.06%) demonstrated an adequate level of knowledge, 52 (43.70%) possessed a moderate level of knowledge, 11(9.25%) individuals exhibited inadequate knowledge regarding junk food and 102(85.71%) are aware of the prevention of unhealthy eating habits. Conclusion: The findings of the present study reveal that students had adequate knowledge regarding junk food consumption.