Hubungan Pengetahuan dan Sikap dengan Frekuensi Konsumsi Sugar-sweetened Bevarage pada Mahasiswa Fakultas Kesehatan Masyarakat USU

Abstract

The widespread availability, ease of access, and variety of Sugar-sweetened Beverage (SSB) pose a challenge for society, including students, given that most SSB contain high levels of sugar. Excessive consumption of SSB has negative health impacts, such as an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. Knowledge and attitudes play a crucial role in controlling SSB consumption, as both can influence individual behavior and decision-making regarding what they consume. This study aims to determine the correlation between knowledge and attitudes with the frequency of Sugar-sweetened Beverage consumption among students at the Faculty of Public Health, USU. This research is a quantitative descriptive study using a cross-sectional design. The study was conducted at the Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Sumatera Utara. The sample was taken using Slovin's formula, resulting in a total of 105 students. Data analysis was performed using univariate and bivariate analyses. The results showed that 53 students consumed SSB infrequently, while 52 students consumed SSBs frequently. Statistical tests indicated no significant relationship between knowledge (p=0.381) and attitudes (p=0.739) with the frequency of Sugar sweetened Beverage consumption. It can be concluded that although students attitudes and knowledge are categorized as good, they do not significantly affect the frequency of SSB consumption; other factors beyond attitude and knowledge may play a more significant role in determining student’s SSB consumption habits. It is hoped that students will reduce their consumption of SSB considering the negative health impacts that may arise.