Prevalence of Junk Food Consumption among Healthcare Students and Hospital Staff: A Multicentric Cross-Sectional Study in India

Abstract

Background: Rapid urbanization, busy schedules, and easy availability of fast food have significantly increased junk food consumption among young adults and healthcare professionals. Despite awareness of healthy dietary practices, healthcare students and staff may still frequently consume unhealthy food.

Aim:
To assess the prevalence and pattern of junk food consumption among healthcare students and hospital staff in selected institutions in India.

Methods:
A multicentric cross-sectional study was conducted in two medical colleges with teaching hospitals, two nursing colleges, one dental college, and one private hospital in India. A total of 300 participants were included: 100 MBBS students and interns, 50 BDS students, 50 nursing students, and 100 hospital staff (nurses and technicians). Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire assessing frequency, reasons, and awareness regarding junk food consumption. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.

Results:
Overall prevalence of junk food consumption was 78%. Medical students showed the highest frequency of consumption (85%), followed by BDS students (80%), nursing students (76%), and hospital staff (68%). Taste (72%), convenience (65%), and academic/work stress (44%) were major reasons for consumption. Frequent consumption (>3 times/week) was reported by 46% of participants.

Conclusion:
Junk food consumption is highly prevalent among healthcare students and hospital staff despite awareness of health risks. Nutritional education programs and healthy food availability in institutional cafeterias are recommended.