First-ever study by Kurdistan Region’s universities reveals alarming health impacts of energy drink consumption

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – A groundbreaking joint study conducted by Duhok and Zakho Universities has uncovered the concerning consequences of energy drink consumption, particularly among medical students.

The research, led by Professor Hazhmat Ali from Duhok Medical College and Professor Alan Mahmood from Zakho Medical College, reveals a significant association between energy drinks and adverse cardiovascular, neurological, and psychological effects.

Published in the international medical journal Cureus, the study examined 438 medical students aged 18-25, discovering that a staggering 70% regularly consume energy drinks. Alarmingly, 30% of these students developed tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), while 56.4% experienced elevated blood pressure.

Additionally, frequent energy drink consumers reported increased instances of palpitations, chest discomfort, and aggressive behavior compared to non-consumers.

Professor Hazhmat Ali, one of the study's supervisors, told Kurdistan 24 that the findings unequivocally demonstrate the negative impact of energy drinks on the human body. "These beverages disrupt the psychology of individuals, causing sleep disturbances, feelings of fatigue, and anger," he stated.

The Kurdistan Region's market currently offers around 31 types of energy drinks. The Ministry of Health has previously seized smuggled varieties deemed unfit for consumption, highlighting the potential dangers associated with unregulated products.

This landmark study underscores the urgent need for public health interventions to curb energy drink consumption and raise awareness of its associated risks, particularly among young adults in university settings.

The full study can be accessed through this link.