223129 Energy Drinks and Risky Health Behaviors

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Jacquie Fraser, PhD , School of Health Professions, Long Island University, Brooklyn, NY
David Spierer, EdD , School of Health Professions, Long Island University, Brooklyn, NY
Anthony Santella, DrPH , School of Health Professions, Long Island University, Brookyn, NY
Background: Energy drinks are beverages that contain large quantities of caffeine, sugar and other ingredients such as taurine guarana, ginseng and B vitamins. They are marketed specifically to students, athletes, and other young people. Purpose: To establish the frequency of intake of energy drinks by athletes and other students and to then determine if there are consequent adverse health behaviors as a result of this intake. Significance: There have been documented health consequences associated with these products including dehydration, insomnia, headaches, nervousness, and vomiting and more serious reactions such as seizures, heart arrhythmia and death. Additionally, research has shown that those who drink an excessive amount of energy drinks may be more likely to engage in risky behaviors. Methodology: The survey will be administered to athletes and non-athletes by the researchers. Administrative assistance has been provided to identify appropriate means of accessing these students. Athletes will be surveyed first. As far as it is feasible and practical, the researchers will subsequently match non-athletes as closely as possible to the demographics of the athletes. The survey is completely anonymous and no individual, team or class results will be disseminated. Findings/Results: This research will take place during the spring 2010 semester. Conclusions/Recommendations: Because relatively little research has been conducted in this area, this study will add to the overall body of knowledge. Of particular importance is this approach of surveying both athletes and non-athletes and the ability to examine risk behavior by energy drink intake and student status.

Learning Areas:
Public health or related education

Learning Objectives:
Describe the potential risks of excessive intake of energy drinks. Explain how energy drinks may increase the possibility of risky health behavior.

Keywords: Adolescent Health, Risky Behaviors

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: One of my areas of interest is risky behavior within health promotion and education. Also, I have been involved with the data analysis of this study.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.