Factors Influencing Energy Drinks Consumption Among Adult Men in Tanzania: A Case Study of Tunduma Town Council in Songwe Region

Abstract

The increasing consumption of energy drinks among adults has become a
growing public health and behavioural concern worldwide. This study examined
factors influencing energy drink consumption among adult men in Tunduma
Town Council, Songwe region, Tanzania. A cross-sectional design used a mixed-
methods approach; data were collected through interviews, surveys, focus group
discussions, and documentary reviews, predominantly quantitative and
supported by qualitative data. Quantitative data were collected from 397 adult
men using structured questionnaires, while 20 purposively selected key
informants provided qualitative insights. Quantitative data were analysed using
descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression with the aid of IBM SPSS
version 28 as a statistical tool. Whereas qualitative data were thematically
analysed using NVivo version 12. The results show that taste and perceived
improvement in work performance were the main reasons for energy drink
consumption. Regression analysis revealed that physical performance,
rehydration, mood improvement, peer influence, advertisement and branding,
and perceived sexual performance enhancement were significantly associated
with energy drink consumption (p ≤ 0.05). The study concludes that energy drink
consumption is largely driven by performance-related perceptions and social
influence rather than health awareness. Based on these findings, the study
recommends that the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with relevant
regulatory authorities, should strengthen community-based health education
programs to raise awareness of the potential health risks associated with
excessive energy drink consumption, particularly among adult men.