Hafsa Kamran
The University of Lahore, Pakistan
Title: Effect of Internet Addiction on Dietary Behavior and Lifestyle Characteristics among University Students
Biography
Biography: Hafsa Kamran
Abstract
Statement of the Problem: With increased use of internet in daily lives, its negative effects are also being observed on physical, psychological and social health of individuals. Internet addiction, an emerging mental health disorder from last two decades, is manifested by inability in the controlled use of internet leading to academics, social, physiological and/or psychological difficulties. The purpose of this study was to assess the levels of Internet Addiction (IA) among university students and to explore its effect on their dietary behavior and lifestyle.
Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: In this analytical cross-sectional study, the subjects were selected from four universities in Lahore, Pakistan through two-stage sampling (n = 500). Levels of Internet Addiction (IA) were assessed using Young Internet Addiction Test and demographics, dietary behavior and lifestyle factors using self-reported questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS (version 21).
Findings: Results showed that severe and moderate IA was present in 9.7% and 42.1% of population respectively. High prevalence was found among males, Private Sector University and engineering students. Frequent breakfast skipping, increased meal size and habit of snacking while using internet was found associated with IA. Internet Addicts were also used to eat less than recommended daily servings of dairy and fruit and more servings of meat group than their no internet addict counterparts (p < 0.05). Fast food and fried items were most consumed snacks, while carbonated beverages were most consumed beverages among internet addicts. . IA was found associated with lesser physically activity, shorter duration of physical activity, disorganized sleep pattern and less duration of sleep (p < 0.05).
Conclusion & Significance: In conclusion, unhealthy dietary behavior and lifestyle habits were exhibited by internet addicts. University students should be educated regarding importance of balanced diet and healthy lifestyle for effectual primary prevention of numerous chronic diseases.