Original Article
Keywords:
Dentists, Perception, Donning, Doffing, Personal Protective Equipment
Year : 2024 | Volume : 12 | Issue : 2 | Page : 70-77
Association between junk food intake and depression among dental students – A questionnaire study
Parvathy Premnath1*, Monika Ganesan2, Nandu Mon.S2, Mohita Sudhan2 1* Reader, Department of Public Health Dentistry Asan Memorial Dental College and Hospital, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu 603105 2 Intern, Department of Public Health Dentistry Asan Memorial Dental College and Hospital, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu 603105
Address for Correspondence:
Dr. Parvathy Premnath,
Asan Memorial Dental College and Hospital, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu 603105
Email id: - dr.parvathypachat@gmail.com
Abstract
Introduction: Dental students often face significant academic and clinical pressures, which can negatively impact their mental health. Unhealthy dietary habits, particularly the consumption of junk food, have been linked to various mental health disorders, including depression. This study aimed to investigate the association between junk food consumption and depressive symptoms among dental students.
Materials and methods: This study, conducted via questionnaire, explored the potential link between junk food consumption and depression specifically within the population of dental students. The questionnaire assessed demographic information, frequency of junk food consumption, and depressive symptoms using a Beck’s depression scale. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation analysis to identify and quantify the relationships between the study variables.
Results: The results of the study revealed a significant positive association between junk food consumption and depressive symptoms among dental students. Higher frequency of junk food consumption was associated with the higher levels of depressive symptoms.
Conclusion: This study reveals a significant link between junk food consumption and depression among dental students, underscoring the need for dental education institutions to prioritize promoting healthy eating habits and mental wellness initiatives to safeguard the overall well-being of their students.
Financial support and sponsorship
Nil
Conflicts of interest
There are no conflicts of interest
How to Cite this article: Parvathy Premnath, Monika Ganesan, Nandu Mon.S, Mohita Sudhan. A. Association between junk food intake and depression among dental students – A questionnaire study. Int J Comm Dent 2024; 12(2); 70 -77. DOI: https://doi.org/10.56501/intjcommunitydent.v12i2.1206