A K.A.P Study of Health Hazards Associated with Junk Food

Vast gaps exist in the data and information about knowledge, attitude and practices related to consumption of junk foods and associated health hazards. The present study is an attempt to bridge this gap in the knowledge. The study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude& practice related to intake of junk food among students as well as identify the associated factors for such practices. Methods: cross-sectional study was conducted for 6 months& Complete Enumeration methods was used for sampling. Results: Majority (95.5 %) were aware of the commonly used food additives in preparation of junk foods. When questioned about the health hazards associated with the consumption of junk food, the responses were -Obesity (73.1 %), CVD (47.7 %) and Diabetes (44.7 %). Despite the knowledge status of junk food and their health hazard among the students, practice of having junk food frequently (100 %) was found high. Despite the knowledge of hazardous effects almost 80 % students ate junk foods frequently (4-5days) in a week Conclusion: The study showed an excellent status of knowledge about Junk food- composition, concepts, definition and health hazards associated with junk food among the study population. However the huge difference between knowledge and practice was a cause of alarm.