Determining predictors of change in sugar sweetened beverage consumption behaviour among university students in India

Consumption of sugar sweetened beverages (SSBs) is a significant risk behaviour that leads to the development of several chronic diseases. The present study aimed to predict the SSB consumption behaviour among Indian university students by utilising a multi theory model (MTM) of health behaviour change.

In a cross-sectional design, a validated 37-item self-report questionnaire was administered to 267 participants from a mid-size university in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India. Stepwise multiple regressions were used to determine predictors of change in initiation and sustenance of SSB consumption behaviour. For stepwise multiple regression, the a priori criteria of probability of F to enter the predictor in the model was set as less than or equal to 0.05 and for removing the predictor as greater than or equal to 0.10.

The model was able to predict 16.7% variance in behavioural initiation through the constructs of participatory dialogue and behavioural confidence, and 30.2% variance in sustenance through emotional transformation and change in social environment. Participatory dialogue and behavioural confidence were predictors of behaviour initiation; and emotional transformation, and change in social environment were predictors of behaviour sustenance for SSB consumption behaviour change.

The study provided a pathway for design of interventions for SSB intake reduction in Indian university students. Interventions should be designed using participatory dialogue and behavioural confidence initiation, and emotional transformation and change in social environment for sustenance of change in SSB consumption in this population.