Association Between Consumption of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and Sociodemographic Characteristics Among Mississippi Adults

INTRODUCTION: The consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is linked to excessive weight gain, diabetes, and risk of cardiovascular disease. We examined the association between SSB consumption and sociodemographic characteristics among Mississippi adults. METHODS: We used data from the 2012 Mississippi Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, which collected information on SSB consumption from 7,485 respondents. We used logistic regression models to calculate adjusted prevalence ratios (APRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for characteristics associated with SSB consumption. RESULTS: In 2012, 40.8% of Mississippi adults reported consuming at least one SSB daily. The likelihood of consuming SSBs at least once daily among respondents aged 18 to 34 years was 2.81 times higher (APR, 2.81; 95% CI, 2.49–3.18) than among those aged 65 years or older. The prevalence among men was 20% higher (APR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.11–1.30) than among women and 23% higher (APR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.13–1.35) among black respondents than among white respondents. The prevalence among respondents with less than a high school education was 25% higher (APR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.11–1.41) than among those who with more than a high school education and 33% higher (APR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.16–1.52) among those with an annual household income of less than $20,000 than among those with an income of $50,000 or more. CONCLUSION: Among Mississippi adults, age, sex, race, education level, and income are associated with an increased likelihood of SSB consumption. Findings highlight the need for policies and interventions to address SSB consumption and promote alternatives to SSBs among Mississippians.