A Cross-Sectional Study on the Impact of Social Media Food Advertising Exposure on Adolescents' Eating Habits and Body Mass Index.

Nursing

Abstract Background: The quick rise of social media has made it easier for teens to see digital food ads, especially ads for meals that are high in calories and low in nutrients. This exposure might change how people eat and make the obesity rate go up. Objective: To investigate the impact of social media food advertisement exposure on adolescents' dietary habits and Body Mass Index (BMI). Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was performed among adolescents aged 13 to 17 years in designated schools. We used WHO BMI-for-age guidelines to figure out BMI. A systematic questionnaire evaluated the frequency of exposure to food marketing on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and other digital media, as well as eating behaviours. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and chi-square tests were used to look at the data. Results: A greater exposure to food commercials was substantially correlated with heightened consumption of fast foods, sugary drinks, and frequent snacking. There was a positive relationship between advertisement exposure scores and BMI levels (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Food ads on social media have a big impact on bad eating habits and may be a cause of obesity in teens. School nurses should add lessons on digital media to programs that help kids avoid becoming overweight.

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