Food Access and Fast Food Consumption Behaviour among Health Sciences Students at Uitm Puncak Alam

Abstract

Background: Fast foods are convenient to people who lives a busy lifestyle. Nevertheless, uncontrolled consumption of fast food can lead to obesity. About 84% of Malaysian students consume fast food and are often unable to meet recommended nutrient intake due to snacking habits and skipping meals. Objective: To identify food access and fast food consumption behaviour among Health Sciences students at UiTM Puncak Alam. Methods: This cross-sectional study was done among Health Sciences students at UiTM Puncak Alam. The questionnaire was adapted from ‘Fast Food Consumption and Obesity’. A total 267 from Year 2 and Year 3 was participated. The questionnaire consists of 27 questions including demographic data, food access and fast food consumption behaviour. Results: Majority of the students have problem in transportation for food access and consumed fast food many times per month. However, the study finding showed no relationship between transportation problem, fast food consumption behaviour and BMI. Conclusion: With the advance in technology food can be ordered online and can be delivered by the restaurant. Therefore, there was no relationship between transportation problem and fast food consumption behaviour. Future research should focus on effect of fast food consumption behaviour on students’ academic performance and health related quality of life.