PERCEPTION TOWARDS THE RISK ASSOCIATED WITH SOFT DRINKS CONSUMPTION AMONG ADELEKE UNIVERSITY UNDERGRADUATES, EDE OSUN STATE, NIGERIA

Nigeria is the world’s 4th highest consumer of soft drinks with an estimated 38.6 million liters of soft drinks sold annually. This high intake of soft drink poses public health concerns as it leads to various health problems. The main objective of this study is to assess the perception of the risk associated with soft drinks consumption among Adeleke University undergraduate students, Ede, Osun State. A descriptive cross-sectional design with simple random and systemic sampling techniques (n=228) was conducted among the undergraduates of Adeleke University using a semi-structured questionnaire. The obtained information was analyzed using SPSS version 27 and results were presented using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test was to explore the relationship between perception towards risks and factors contributing to soft drink consumption. Among the types of soft drinks, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, Pepsi, and Maltina were the most consumed. Although majority 87.7% of respondents had high perception on the risk associated with frequent consumption, soft drink intake remained high. This was mainly influenced by factors like taste 67.1%, availability on campus 95.2% and refreshment during hot weather 80.7%. The study found no significant relationship between perception towards the risk and factors contributing to soft drink consumption (p = 0.949). Students recognize the dangers of excessive sugar intake and potential health conditions, these perceptions do not significantly deter consumption, potentially due to factors such as affordability, accessibility, and taste preferences. Therefore, campus shops and canteens should be encouraged to stock and promote affordable healthier alternatives such as natural juices, water, and unsweetened teas.