The Consumption of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs) Among a Group of Primary School Students in Western Jamaica: Eating to Ill-Health

Abstract

This study investigates the high consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) among primary school students in Western Jamaica. The research aims to evaluate the prevalence of SSB consumption, assess students' awareness of the associated health impacts, and develop effective intervention strategies. Utilising a descriptive research design, data was collected through surveys and interviews with Grade 6 students and teachers from the school. Findings indicate that all the sampled respondents consumed SSBs (100%). They all consumed bag juice and fruit-flavoured juice drinks, followed by 15 (93.8%) consuming sweetened milk drinks. Most (68.8%) consumed SSBs two to three times per day, 56.3% consumed SSBs six to seven times per week, purchased the items from the school's tuck shops (81.3%), vendors close to the school (68.8%), 62.5% believed drinking excess SSBs can result in diabetes. The results revealed that students consumed the same quantity of SSBs each week following the intervention (i.e., most students consumed SBB six or seven times a week (56.3%). Despite awareness of the adverse health effects, high SSB consumption persists. An intervention involving a water challenge was implemented, where SSB sales were suspended, and students were encouraged to drink water. However, the results showed minimal change in SSB consumption patterns, highlighting challenges such as the availability of SSBs from external vendors and limited healthy alternatives. The study underscores the need for comprehensive strategies, including broader availability of healthy beverages and more robust collaboration among stakeholders, to effectively reduce SSB consumption and promote healthier habits among students.