Knowledge, attitude, and practice of medical students on artificial sweeteners: A cross-sectional study at Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata

Abstract

Background: With rising obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome rates, artificial sweeteners (ASs) have gained popularity as a healthier sugar substitute. However, their long-term effects remain unknown. Studies link them to increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mortality in adults. On May 15, 2023, the World Health Organization issued a guideline discouraging non-sugar sweetener use for weight control and reducing non-communicable disease risk. Medical students are future doctors who will be responsible for the health of the society for 1 day. This study aims to raise awareness among medical students about the pros and cons of ASs through questionnaires based on the knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors regarding the same. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of undergraduate medical students about the use of ASs. Materials and Methods: A predesigned, pre-validated questionnaire study was conducted among 600 medical undergraduates at Medical College, Kolkata, using Google Forms. The study included 18 questions with six questions in each section of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP). The responses were analyzed as percentages, using Microsoft excel. Results: 55% of undergraduate medical students consider ASs to be different from natural sugar. About 82% acknowledge lower calorie content in ASs. While 27.2% support replacing daily sugar with sweeteners, only 5.1% actually used these sweeteners at home. About 67.8% preferred sugar-free items occasionally. Though medical students, only 59.9% occasionally checked ingredient labels while buying food items. Conclusion: Medical students have diverse knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding ASs. While they recognize the caloric advantage and potential for weight reduction, opinions vary on their impact on insulin resistance, sensory perception, cancer risk, tooth decay, and suitability for pregnant diabetic women. More education and research are needed to improve understanding and establish evidence-based recommendations in clinical practice.