The Association Between Caffeine Consumption and Academic Success in Makkah Region, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: The consumption of caffeinated beverages has increased significantly, particularly, among young adults. They use caffeinated drinks for a variety of reasons. The most popular reason is to enhance mental alertness by improving brain function, wakefulness, and productivity. The high prevalence rate of caffeinated drinks among young adults may affect their academic performance level. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study based on an electronic questionnaire via Google Forms, conducted in February 2022 after the biomedical ethics committee obtained the ethical approval at Umm Al- Qura University (UQU), College of Medicine, Makkah, Saudi Arabia, the sample size was 593 medical students in Makkah region. Results: A total number of 593 medical students participated in this study, most of the medical students who participated (47.20%) had average GPA of 85%-95%. The largest number of medical students (45.30%) consume only one cup of caffeinated beverages per day. We reported no association between caffeinated beverages consumption and academic performance. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that caffeinated beverages are a popular practice among medical college students. Majority of the medical students in Makkah region consume coffee as the most popular drink, while energy drinks are considered to be the least consumed drink, but energy drinks are easily affordable and available. Therefore, primary prevention of excessive consumption of caffeine is essential