Energy drinks consumption among Serbian medical students

Background Energy drink (ED) consumption is a global public health issue, especially among adolescents and young adults, and it has become a common practice among medical students all over the world. The aim of this study was to examine the attitudes and practices of medical students about the consumption of ED. Material and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 458 fourth-year medical students in Belgrade using an anonymous questionnaire. In the data analysis, a Chi-square test was used. Results About one third (32.3%) of the students consumed ED regularly, significantly more often older students (p < .01), smokers (p < .05), and students who drank coffee (p < .05) and alcohol (p < .01). The majority of students (61.5%) consumed ED while studying or before exams, during parties (27.7%) and without a special occasion (27.0%). Mixing alcohol with ED was reported by 12.8% of the students. Side effects after ED consumption have been noted by 59.5% of students of both genders, and the most common were palpitations (42.6%), insomnia (33.8%), and headache (33.1%). Conclusion There is a need to raise awareness among medical students about energy drinks because they, as healthcare professionals, will educate people in the future.