KNOWLEDGE ON MEDICATION TAKING BEHAVIOUR, BALANCED DIET AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY – A SURVEY AMONG THE ADOLESCENTS

ABSTRACT: The main objective of the study is to promote awareness and assess the knowledge of adolescents on medication use, importance of balanced diet and physical activity. The study was conducted among the adolescents’ aged from16-18 years in regions of Guntur. The volunteers are allowed to fill their informed consent to be a part of the study. The questionnaire was distributed to all the volunteers included in the study, which includes questions on their medication taking behaviour, dietary habits and physical activity. The response was then analysed to assess the knowledge on medication use, balanced diet and physical activity. Among the 165 individuals on assessment of their medication taking behaviour 78% of them do not follow their prescription, 61% of the individuals do not have any idea on their medication use and a majority of 74% are not aware of the unwanted effects caused by the medication. On assessment of their dietary habits and physical activity, 62% of the individuals include meal rich in fat, 42% of the individuals skip their breakfast every day and 41% of them will not include leafy vegetables as part of their regular meal. 65% of individuals do not perform a regular physical activity. It is the responsibility of the pharmacist to promote awareness on the medications, balanced diet and physical activity to improve the quality of life of an individual.