The youth of tamale metropolis: understanding energy drink consumption, perceptions and related factors

Energy drinks have become a popular choice for young people seeking physical and cognitive boosts, with ingredients such as caffeine, taurine, and B vitamins aimed at improving academic, athletic, and alertness levels. However, the popularity of these drinks is also driven by low prices, taste, brand loyalty, and gendered marketing, with boys being more likely to consume them. Despite the supposed benefits, energy drinks have been associated with high-risk behaviours, deaths, and adverse health effects, especially related to cardiovascular risk. Meanwhile, in Ghana, the use of energy drinks is on the rise. Hence, this study aimed to examine the prevalence and consumption pattern, perception, and factors associated with ED consumption among the youth of the Tamale Metropolis. The study was cross-sectional consisting of 541 participants. The group consisted of 340 males and 201 females, between the ages of 15 and 45. A questionnaire was utilized to obtain data on the respondents consumption patterns and perceptions of EDs, as well as their socio-demographic characteristics. The results of the study indicated that a large percentage of the respondents, 98.7%, had consumed energy drinks before, while 78.7% currently consume them. Respondents believed that energy drinks provided additional energy (81.00%) and reduced stress (62.30%). However, they also perceived side effects such as insomnia (60.60%) and restlessness (51.40%). Although the majority of respondents (83.4%) were unaware of the classification of energy drinks and their ingredients, side effects, and benefits. Age, marital status, level of education, work intensity, EDs served at gatherings, and knowledge of EDs was significantly associated with ED consumption (p < .05). Consumption was higher among those aged 26 to 35 years, singles, individuals with no formal education, and those with high work intensity. Energy drinks were consumed by the majority of the youth. The high consumption was also associated with low knowledge levels. It is recommended that public health and nutrition professionals should engage in further advocacy efforts to improve the youths perception of EDs in a positive manner. In addition, lawmakers should use legislation to influence consumption rates and safeguard the health of consumers.