Author(s) :

Jacob Lee, Zhuoyuan Li, Galvin Li.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Nutrition and health knowledge are fundamental determinants of dietary behavior. This study evaluated awareness levels among Germantown high school students to identify barriers to healthy behaviors. In 2025, 56 students aged 16–18 completed an anonymous online questionnaire covering nutrition knowledge and eating habits. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and inferential analyses consisted of two-sample t-tests and one-way ANOVA F-tests to compare different demographic subgroups. The overall awareness rate was low at 30.36%. Significant correlations emerged with healthcare exposure. Respondents with healthcare study or work experience achieved a 75.36 mean awareness score, compared to 59.39 for those without. Digital media platforms were the primary information source (78.57%), while school education accounted for 21.43%. Students demonstrated high awareness in Pathophysiology (75.36%) but deficits in Nutritional Literacy (55.16%). Although 60.71% claimed to actively limit unhealthy foods, cafeteria purchases were dominated by French fries (36.36%) and fried chicken (36.36%). Key barriers included taste (60.61%), inconvenience (39.39%), and time (36.36%). Because students rely heavily on digital media platforms that provide inconsistent guidance, structured school nutrition education and cafeteria reform are vital to align intentions with healthy dietary outcomes. Furthermore, collaboration among food manufacturers, the media, and public health sectors is necessary to cultivate a supportive food environment.