Caffeine Consumption Patterns Among Medical Students: Survey Study

TL;DR

Medical students in California consume more caffeine as they progress through their training, possibly due to stress.

Contribution

The study reveals a link between caffeine consumption and stress in medical students, particularly in third-year students.

Findings

Caffeine consumption increases with medical training progression.

Third-year students consume more caffeine from coffee and energy drinks.

Higher caffeine intake correlates with elevated modified CAGE scores, indicating stress-related stimulant use.

Abstract

This cross-sectional survey of a California medical school found that caffeine consumption increases across medical training, with third-year students consuming more caffeine, particularly from coffee, energy drinks, and over-the-counter stimulants, than first- and second-year students, and higher intake being associated with elevated modified CAGE scores, suggesting stress-related stimulant use.