The prevalence and characterisation of energy drink consumption in North America: A systematic review

Abstract

Objectives: Energy drinks (ED), which contain high levels of caffeine, are widely popular and their consumption is increasing, especially among young people who may have limited understanding of the associated risks. The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of ED consumption in North America (Canada, Mexico and the US) and to characterise ED consumers.

Study design: Systematic review.

Methods: A systematic review of studies estimating the prevalence of ED consumption was conducted. The characteristics of the studies, populations included, consumption assessment and prevalence of consumption were recorded. Study quality was evaluated using an adaptation of the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. A descriptive analysis of the results was performed.

Results: In total, 91 studies conducted in North America were included. All studies were of low to moderate quality. The prevalence of ED consumption was assessed using different temporalities in different studies, which made it impossible to reach a conclusion about the prevalence in North America. Across all populations and temporalities, a considerable range of ED prevalence was observed. It is noteworthy that in studies of university students, weekly ED consumptions >60 % were reported. ED consumption was associated with being male and the co-consumption of alcohol, tobacco and marijuana or cannabis.

Conclusions: Results show that ED consumption was highly heterogeneous and widely prevalent, especially among younger populations. This review provides information to help guide and design appropriate public health measures and strategies.

Keywords: Characterisation; Consumption; Energy drinks; North America; Prevalence.