Lego Shincy P.R.,
Ancy Steffy,
- Associate Professor, St. Mary’s College of Nursing, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Vice Principal, Gyanveer University Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, India
Abstract
Junk food refers to ready-to-eat foods that are prepared and served quickly, including a wide range of fast-food products. In recent years, the popularity and consumption of junk food have risen markedly in India, particularly among adolescents and young adults, who constitute the largest consumer group. This growing preference has made junk food a regular component of the dietary patterns of many adolescents in developing nations. Frequent consumption of these energy-dense and nutrient-poor foods contributes to excessive calorie intake, increasing the risk of overweight and obesity. These conditions are associated with several long-term health problems, including metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and a decline in overall quality of life and life expectancy. The present investigation was undertaken to determine the effectiveness of an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) module in enhancing awareness of the health hazards associated with junk food among late adolescents. The study adopted a one-group pre-test and post-test research design to evaluate the effectiveness of the educational intervention. A total of 60 late adolescents were recruited using a convenience sampling technique. Data were gathered through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using appropriate descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The findings revealed a marked improvement in participants’ knowledge after the intervention. The mean knowledge score increased from 9.17 in the pre-test to 17.16 in the post-test, indicating a significant gain in knowledge. The standard deviation changed from 2.49 before the intervention to 2.69 after the intervention, reflecting the variability in knowledge scores at the two assessment periods. A paired t-test was performed to compare the pre-test and post-test scores and to evaluate the effectiveness of the IEC module. The statistical analysis showed a significant increase in adolescents’ knowledge regarding the health risks associated with junk food after exposure to the IEC module. Based on these findings, it was concluded that the educational intervention was effective in improving awareness and strengthening late adolescents’ understanding of the adverse health effects of junk food. The study highlights the importance of structured educational programs in promoting healthy dietary behaviors and preventing the long-term consequences of unhealthy eating habits among adolescents.
Keywords: Junk food, health hazards, late adolescents, information education communication (IEC) module, knowledge assessment
[This article belongs to Journal of Nursing Science & Practice ]
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Journal of Nursing Science & Practice
| Volume | 16 | |
| Issue | 02 | |
| Received | 28/04/2026 | |
| Accepted | 23/07/2026 | |
| Published | 30/07/2026 | |
| Publication Time | 93 Days |