Awareness 1

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LEVEL OF AWARENESS OF GRADE 12 STUDENTS ILOCOS SUR POLYTECHNIC STATE

COLLEGE- LABORATORY HIGHSCHOOL ON THE EFFECTS OF EATING JUNK FOODS
Ordonez, Joanna Grace G.

Racca, Rayma Abigail B.
A Research Report Presented by the Researchers of

Ilocos Sur Polytechnic College
Laboratory High School
In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement for the Applied Subject

Practical Research 2
GRADE 12 STEM
JANUARY 2024
ILOCOS SUR POLYTECHNIC STATE COLLEGE
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ACKNOWLEGEMENT
These researchers express their sincere gratitude to the following individuals for their tireless
support, assistance, and contributions to make this research a success.
To their teacher in Practical Research 2, Dr. Arlene P. Ablog, who gave them the opportunity to
study and guide them in the right steps in conducting this research.
To their beloved parents, who has been their source of inspiration that continually supported,
understood and helped them in their studies and in providing moral and financial support.
To the respondents who took their time to generate the data, evidence or proof that the
researchers needed to fill for the research.
And above all, praises and thanks to God, the Almighty, for His showers of blessings
throughout our research and its successful completion.
Again, thank you all very much.
- JGGO & RABR

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DEDICATION
We whole heartedly dedicate this research to the Almighty God for giving courage and guiding the
people involved in this research towards our success. We also wholeheartedly offer our thanks to the
parents for their tireless support of our needs and their understanding of us. To classmates, fellow
researchers, teachers, citizens, and future generations. You can be said to be the reason for our effort.
The researchers present this research to their parents, classmates, fellow researchers, teachers to the
citizens, to future generations and above all, to the Lord God.
- JGGO & RABR

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Abstract
JOANNA GRACE G. ORDONEZ and RAYMA ABIGAIL B. RACCA, January 2024, LEVEL OF
AWARENESS OF GRADE 12 STUDENTS ILOCOS SUR POLYTECHNIC STATE COLLEGE-
LABORATORY HIGHSCHOOL ON THE EFFECTS OF EATING JUNK FOODS, ILOCOS SUR
POLYTECHNIC STATE COLLEGE- LABORATORY HIGH SCHOOL STA. MARIA CAMPUS.
Dr. Arlene P. Ablog, Ed. D

Research Instructor
This study aims to determine the level of awareness of Grade 12 students of ISPSC-
Laboratory High School on the effects of eating junk foods. This study, made used of the descriptive
research design and undergoed through random sampling technique. Statistical tools were used to
interpret the percentage and weighted mean of the answers of the respondents.
The findings concluded that most of the respondents are female and between the ages of 17-
18, with the majority being 17 years old. Additionally, most of their parents have attained a college
education, and all of the respondents live in rural areas. Sex did not affect the level of awareness of the
students regarding the effects of eating junk food, as they were already knowledgeable about it.
Similarly, the age of the respondents did not influence their awareness, as their level of observance
determined their understanding of the impacts of junk food consumption. However, the educational
attainment of the respondents' parents did affect their level of awareness. The place of residence also
influenced the respondents' awareness of junk food effects, with globalization and changes in diet and
physical activity contributing to shifts in food consumption patterns.
Based on the study results, several measures are recommended. The school administration
should develop a program to ensure healthier food options in the cafeteria, including regular monitoring.
Canteen vendors and staff should attend health seminars to learn how to prepare and serve healthy
food, while maintaining proper food hygiene. The Department of Education should conduct seminars for
school staff, including canteen vendors and teachers, to promote healthy food practices. Additionally,
the Department of Health should visit schools to ensure the inclusion of healthier food options. Lastly,
students should form organizations to advocate for awareness about the effects of eating junk food and
participate in health-benefiting activities like feeding programs.
Keywords: awareness, effects, junk foods, students, dietary patterns

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PRELIMINARIES
Title Page 1
Acknowledgement 2
Dedication 3
Abstract 4
Table of Contents 5
CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION
Overview of the Study 7
Statement of the Problem 8
Conceptual Framework 9
Importance of Study 10
Review of Related Literature 11
Respondent Profile 11
Objectives of the Study 13
Time and Place of the Study 13
Scope and Delimitation 13
Definition of Terms 14
CHAPTER II: METHODOLOGY
Research Design 15
Participant of the Study 15
Interpretation of Data 15
Data Gathering Instrument 15
Data Collection 16
Data Analysis 16
Categorization 16
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CHAPTER III: PRESENTATION, ANALYIS, AND
INTERPRETATION OF RESULTS
Findings of the Study 18
CHAPTER IV: RESULT AND DISCUSSION
Summary 28
Conclusion 28
Reccomendation 29
REFERENCES 31
APPENDICES
A. Request Letter 33
B. Questionaire 34
CURRICULUM VITAE 36
CHAPTER I
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INTRODUCTION
Introduction
The food we consume are the foundation of the cells in our body; it provides energy for human
body to work. Teens in this generation choose foods based on convenience rather than considering the
health effects of what they consume. It is important; to know what is good for human body and what is
not. If a student does not have healthy diet they will certainly not have the strength to work throughout
the next school hours. In today's world, a lot of students lack basic nutritional knowledge.
Junk food tastes good, but the effects on the health is detrimental. Junk foods have become a
prominent feature of the diet of teenagers. The junk food is also called fast food, because it is easy to
prepare, cheap and tasty. But these foods have many harmful effects on health. Many teenagers have
adapted to such changing fast-food trend culture. Such changes are accompanied by dramatic
transformations in people’s dietary patterns, most notably an increase in the consumption of processed
foods such as hamburgers, cheeseburgers, deep-fried chicken, deep-fried potatoes/french, pizza, and
donuts (Stuckler D, et al. 2012). The majority of the foods are energy-dense foods, which have high fat
levels and calorific value. Several studies have found adolescents staying away from home is
associated with increased consumption of fast foods with high calorie intake, (Larson et al 2011) poorer
diet quality (Bertone et al 2003, McNaughton et al 2009) which finally ends up in weight gain (Kartashov
et al 2005).
Nowadays, junk food is defined as any food packed with full of calories or which has less
nutritional value. Junk food can be summarized with four words; fun, delicious, cheap and captivating. It
leads attraction and influence students to prefer consuming junk foods than consuming junk foods than
consuming normal foods is the amount of calories it contains in relation to its weight; it throws the
brain’s appetite. Unhealthy foods such as junk foods are all delicious, except the fact that is not good to
the body. It might damage student’s body if consumed on the regular basis. Eating to much of junk food
leads to obesity and malnutrition. It also damages the energy levels of the body. When we eat too much
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of junk food, vital part of the blood gets diverted to intestine and thus students feel sleepy and weak,
moreover our liver might be damaged due to junks foods. Junk foods are lack of fibre and micro-
nutrients such as vitamins and minerals that the students’ needs for daily activities in school. It is
important for students to be aware on the effects of eating junk foods and the difference between good
and bad dietary choices as they’re body will benefits as they grow.
As future adults, they must serve as a role model, to help the next generations to choose
healthy foods and prevent the risk of having diseases caused by eating junk foods. Here with, the
researchers are motivated to do the research study in determining the level of awareness of Grade 12
students of ISPSC- Laboratory High school on the effects of junk foods as they are more prone to junk
foods when they are in school because of the limited foods available in the school canteens.
Statement of the Problem
This study aims to determine the level of awareness of Grade 12 students of ISPSC-
Laboratory High School on the effects of eating junk foods.
Specifically, it aims to seek answers to the following:
1. What is the profile of the respondents in terms of:
a. Sex
b. Age
c. Place of residence, and
d. Education attainment of Parents?
2. What is the respondents’ level of awareness on the effects of junk foods?
3. Is there any significant relationship between the socio-demographic profiles of the
respondents and their level of awareness on the effects of eating junk foods?
Conceptual Framework
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Independent Variable Dependent Variable
1. Respondents Profile
a. Sex
b. Age Level of awareness on the
effect of eating junk foods
c. Place of residence
d. Education Attainment of
Parents
Figure I. The Research Paradigm
As stated by Siphenyoni (2017), in the world of endless studying and nonstop exams, students
forget to eat healthy foods leading to unhealthy diet. They tend to choose unhealthy alternatives that
are more convenient. But are unhealthy food choices worth regretting that day’s choices? Or, worse,
regretting a month’s choices, after gaining a few extra pounds? Here are some of the reasons why it’s a
challenge for students to stay healthy: Fast food is cheaper, binge drinking, no time to cook, lack of
knowledge and less healthy options in the school ccafeteria.
Figure 1 shows the paradigm of the study. It gives emphasis on the respondent’s profile in
terms of sex, age, parents’ educational attainment, and place of residence. The relationship between
socio-demographic profiles of the respondents and their level of awareness on the effects of eating junk
foods.
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Importance of the Study
Lack of awareness on the effect of junk food is an essential problem. This problem should be
solved by increasing the level of awareness, in this way, the study is considered as necessary one.
The result of the study will be beneficial to the following sectors:
ISPSC. Results of this research output will contribute to the research data bank of ISPSC.
Students. Results of this study will broaden the knowledge of students on the effect of eating
junk food to their body. This would serve as an eye-opener to them to be more mindful on their eating
habits.
Teachers. Findings will help them provide the proper advice and guidance to their students.
There are a lot of knowledge that will be gained in our study that the teachers can teach to their
students.
Researchers. The researcher themselves will be aware of the effects of junk foods. This will
allow them to be more mindful in the foods they consume.
Parents. Finding of the is study will provide awareness on the effect of junk food to their
children. It may maximize their knowledge about the foods their children eat.
Future Researchers. This study may benefit future researchers who want to undertake the
similar research for them to have a basis of what the topic is.
Department of Health. The Department of Health may use the findings of this study as a basis
for future planning and formulation of health policies.

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Review of Related Literature
Junk food consumption in teenagers are emerging as a global epidemic. Junk food is defined
as readily available, frequently affordable, and lacking in nutritional value. These foods are higher in
calories, salt, and saturated fat and lower in iron, calcium, and dietary fiber. They also include more
calories. Various television and other commercials have such an impact on school and children that
they consider eating fatty foods as a fashion. This impacts on psychological, physical, and economic
conditions of adolescents, and also leads to various non communicable diseases like obesity, type 2
diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia etc.
Respondents Profile
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), adolescents are those between the ages
of 10 and 19 years. Almost one-fifth of the population of India, or 190 million teenagers, are expected to
be in this age group. As adolescence is a time of rapid physical growth and rising nutritional needs, it is
crucial to develop appropriate eating habits. Despite clear proof of the harmful effects of junk food on
the human body, young people frequently consume it. More individuals are drawn to these foods,
especially kids and adolescents. According to the study of Gupta et al. with a global prevalence of
about 70%, increased junk food intake is a growing public health concern that is more prevalent among
adolescents and young adults than other age groups.
The astonishing extent of unhealthy eating among Britain's teenagers is revealed in a major
study. An average ten-year-old weighing around five stone is likely to eat his or her own weight in chips
every nine months. Two thirds of six to 12-year-olds insist on chips at least five times a week, while a
third have at least seven helpings of the high-fat snack a week. A minority of youngsters even admit
eating two or more portions of chips a day. However, 90 percent of children turn up their noses at the
recommended amounts of fruit. The research into the dietary habits of six to 16-year-olds was
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conducted for the makers of Haliborange vitamins. The findings paint a particularly bleak picture of the
eating habits of young boys, who were six times more likely than girls to eat chips at least once a day
and twice as likely not to eat any fruit at all (Clark, 2001).
Boy teenagers are more likely to consume fatty, sugary and high-salt snacks than their female
peers and are more easily lured by multi-million-dollar junk food marketing campaigns leading to long-
term health problems, a new study shows. The study found teenage boys were more likely to eat fast
food (46%) compared with girls (34%) and more consumed sugary drinks (28%) compared with the
opposite sex (14%).The survey of almost 9000 Australian secondary school students in Years 8 to 11
also revealed boys consumed salty snacks, fried potato products and sweet treats more often than girls
and were more likely to be influenced by marketing campaigns that involved giveaways, competitions or
links with movies and sports personalities. (Katrina Stokes, 2015).
Students Level of Awareness on Effects of Eating Junk Foods
According to Feldman (2013) students have stake in how menu information is presented in
campus and their opinion could positively impact the general selection of foods, the school canteen has
a relevant means on affecting children’s eating habits thus; its improvements in the foods sold through
schools provides an important contribution to model supportive environments for food choices. The
school canteen influences the eating habits of the students due to the foods they are selling.
In the study of Siphenyoni (2017), in the world of endless studying and nonstop exams,
students can forget to eat healthy. Instead, they tend to choose unhealthy alternatives that are more
convenient. But are unhealthy food choices worth regretting that day’s choices? Or, worse, regretting a
month’s choices, after gaining a few extra pounds? Here are some of the reasons why it’s a challenge
for students to stay healthy: Fast food is cheaper, binge drinking, no time to cook, lack of knowledge
and less healthy options in the Cafeteria.

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Studies have mentioned that the rising consumption of unhealthy foods has been facilitated by
trade liberalization (Thow et al., 2009) and foreign investment in the food and beverage industries,
(Dreher et al., 2008) which have resulted in the proliferation of large transnational food companies
(Hawkes C et al 2005). Research has found that dietary patterns during young adulthood at fast-food
restaurants occur at an average of two to three times per week (Niemeier HM et al, 2006). Another
cross-national ecological analysis revealed an association between soft drink consumption and higher
rates of overweight and obesity (Basu S, McKee M et al 2013). However, most adolescents may not be
acquainted of the high calorie content of such items because the information is often not easily
accessible in fast-food shops. High salt content foods can be act as addictive substances that stimulate
the dopamine receptors in the brain, leading to increase in craving and hunger. It leads to increased
appetite, calorie consumption, overeating, obesity and related illnesses. (James A. Cocores, et al
2008).
Objectives of the Study
The aim of the study is to determine the level of awareness of Grade 12 STEM students of
ISPSC - Laboratory High school towards the effects of eating junk foods to their health conditions.
Time and Place of the Study
The study was conducted place in ISPSC - Laboratory High School which is located on
Poblacion Norte, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur.
Scope and Delimitation
The study is limited to Grade 12 students of ISPSC - Laboratory High school during the 1 st
semester of school year 2023-2024. The respondents’ profile was limited to sex, age, parents’
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educational attainment and place of residence. The researchers have only access to relevant
information. They maintained the progress of the research in order to accomplish it on time.
Researchers used checklist for questionnaires which lessens the time of the respondents to answer
each statement. The questionnaire contains the effects of eating junk food to the health and the harmful
elements present to common junk foods existing in school cafeterias.
Definition of Terms
For a better understanding of the terms related to the study, the following terms are hereby
defined operationally:
Fat- Tax. Considered to be unhealthy that can lead to obesity.
Haliborange. A tasty vitamin that makes children get essential vitamin they needed every day.
Micronutrients. These are essential elements needed by life in small quantities.
Nutritional value. The factor that makes a certain product nutritious.
Obesity. Association between body mass and the risk of acute and the long term morbidity and
mortality.
Junk foods. Foods that is unhealthy due to lack of nutrients, vitamins and minerals but is quick and
easy to eat.
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CHAPTER II
METHODOLOGY
Research Design
This study, made used of the descriptive research design. It is a type of research design that to
collect data, the researchers used survey questionnaires including profile checklist, and awareness
checklist.
Participants of the Study
The respondents of the study include Grade 12 students of Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State
College – Laboratory High School, Santa Maria Campus. There are a total of 30 respondents who
participated in the study.
Interpretation of Data
The selection of the chosen respondents undergoed through random sampling technique. The
researchers used this kind of sampling technique because it is considered as a fair way of selecting a
sample from a given population since every member is given equal opportunities of being selected. It
gave the researchers an equal representation of the respondents from different strand.
Data Gathering Instrument
The researchers used quantitative style questionnaire as one of the data collection instrument
for this study. The survey questionnaire has three parts:

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Profile Checklist. In this part, personal data and information about the students specifically on
the following: sex, age, parent’s educational attainment and place of residence is collected.
Awareness Checklist. This part is consisted of 12 statements where the respondents were
asked to determine their awareness on junk foods. Four options were provided to the respondents for
their responses:
4 – Strongly Aware (SA)
3 – Aware (A)
2 – Moderately Aware (MA)
1 – Not Aware (NA)
Data Collection
The researchers asked permission to the teacher from ISPSC - Laboratory High School that is
in charge to that particular class to conduct a survey to Grade 12 students of ISPSC - Laboratory High
School. After the teacher approved, the researchers have distributed the questionnaires. The
researchers then retrieved the forms and tallied their feedback's, and then examine the result after the
students answered the e questionnaires.
Data Analysis
The response of the students has been statistically examined along with the instrument and
data that are collected in the study. Frequency and mean are deliberated by descriptive statistics.
Data Categorization
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The following was used to evaluate the level of awareness on the effect of junk foods of the students.
Level of Awareness on the Effects of Eating Junk Foods
Verbal Description Weighted Mean
Fully Aware 4.50 - 5.00
Aware 3.50 - 4.49
Moderately Aware 2.50 - 3.49
Slightly Aware 1.50 - 2.49
Not Aware 1.00 - 1.49
Pearson R. Pearson R was utilized to answer the statement of the problem three (3) which shows the
relationship between the respondent’s profile and their level of awareness and behavior on the effects
of eating unhealthy Foods.

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CHAPTER III
PRESENTATION, ANALYIS, AND INTERPRETATION OF RESULTS
This chapter presents the data and results gathered in an organized and comprehensive
manner with the end view of answering specific problem stated in Chapter 1. In particular, the data are
presented in tabular form and substantiated by analysis and interpretation.
Table 1. Socio-demographic Profile of the Respondents
Table 1 to 5 present the socio-demographic profile of the respondents according to their age,
gender, parent’s educational attainment and place of residence based on the frequency and
percentage.
Table 1.1 Sex of the respondents
Sex Frequency (F) Percentage (%)
F 19 63
M 11 37
Total 30 100
As can be seen from the table 1.1, out of 30 respondents there were more female students
than male. There were 19 (63%) female and 11 (37%) males who participated in the study.
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According to the study of 59.6% of Ahmed., et al, out of the total respondents who to consume
Fast Food, and out of them Females are more likely to consume Fast Food. The main reason for their
consumption is the great taste, the varieties available and its attractive appearance.
Table 1.2 Age of the Respondents
Age Frequency (F) Percentage (%)
17 17 57
18 11 37
19 1 3
20 1 3
Total 30 100
Out of 30 respondents, 17 respondents (57%) are 17 years old, 11 respondents (37%) are 18
years old, 1 respondent (3%) are 19 years old and 1 respondent (2.40%) is 20 years old.
World Health Organisation has stated that the dispersion of disease mainly is caused by the
unhealthy eating lifestyle (As cited in CSE 2012). However, the adolescence really loves eating junk
foods including burgers, carbonated drinks, instant noodles, French fries, hotdogs, sweets, potato chips
and biscuits (Arya & Mishra 2013). According to Arya & Mishra (2013), they have classified
adolescence stage into three stages which early adolescence, ranging from 11-14 years old, middle
adolescence, teenagers of age 15-17 years old and lastly late adolescence that have ages of 18-21
years old. Those stages are the most important stages in human life cycle because during early
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adolescence is the emotional management stage due to it is a puberty level. Moreover, in the middle
adolescence is the try-and-error stage because teenagers tend to try many new things and experiences
and last but not least teenagers will figure out his or her future plan during the late adolescence stage.
The study has stated that wrong consumption of nutrients at this level will result a prolong impacts to
them.
Table 1.3 Respondents’ Place of Residency
Place of Residency Frequency (F) Percentage (%)
Rural 30 100
Urban 0 0
Total 30 100
As regards on the table 1.3, place of residence of the respondents. There were 30 respondents
or 100 % lived in urban area and 0 respondents 0% lived in rural areas. This testifies that many of
respondent’s family still cHose to live in rural places rather than in urban area. The share of the urban
population in the Philippines has continued to rise over the years but regardless in 2022, the urban
population accounted for roughly 48% of the entire population, while 52% for rural population.
Table 1.4 Respondents’ Mother’s Educational Attainment
Educational Attainment Frequency (F) Percentage (%)
Elementary Undergraduate 0 0
Elementary Graduate 0 0
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High School Undergraduate 0 0
High School Graduate 2 7
College Undergraduate 8 26
College Graduate 20 67
Total 30 100
Students’ eating habits are influenced by their parents, genetic factors and environment. The
genetic factors lie within the family in which obese children normally have obese parents. This attribute
is related to the general metabolic rate and also the behavioural genetic of their parents specifically
eating style (Van der Horst & Sleddens, 2017; Kral & Rauh, 2010).
On the educational attainment of the mother, the table 1.4 shows that most of them were
college graduates with 20 respondents (67%), 8 (26%) out of 30 (100%) respondents have mother’s
who were college undergraduate, and the remaining 2 (7%) are High School graduate.
Children initial food experience begins from the mother’s womb. They are exposed to different
flavours depending on the mother’s diet. The same situation occurs during infancy to breast-fed babies.
Formula-fed babies are in the disadvantage in this matter since they are only exposed to single flavour
at a time. This first exposure allows the child to be receptive to new flavours thus increasing food
acceptance for more variety of food. Thus, parents’ education, skills and income have been the
influential factors in their early stages.
Table 1.5. Respondents Father’s Educational Attainment

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Educational Attainment Frequency (F) Percentage (%)
Elementary Undergraduate 1 3
Elementary Graduate 0 0
High School Undergraduate 2 7
High School Graduate 7 23
College Undergraduate 6 20
College Graduate 14 47
Total 30 100
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On the educational attainment of the father, the table 1.5 shows that most of them were college
graduates with 14 respondents (47%), 6 (20%) out of 30 (100%) respondents have fathers who were
college undergraduate, 7 (23%) are high school graduate, 2 (7%) are Highschool ungraduated, and the
remaining 1 (3%) is elementary undergraduate. The limited number of college graduates is due to the
fact that Ilocos Sur is an agricultural province, thus many parents are engaged in other work rather than
going to school to obtain a higher degree.
2. Level of awareness of senior high school students on the effects of junk foods.
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WM Verbal Description
Junk food consumption lead to extra weight 4.63 Fully Aware

gain
Soft drinks can cause diseases such as 4.6 Fully Aware

diabetes.
Most of food sold in school are unhealthy 3.93 Aware

foods (junk foods, softdrinks, etc.)
Eating salty food and fatty food cause 4.43 Aware

diseases.
Food closest to highway is more prone to 4 Aware

dirt that causes bacteria.
Frequent consumption of junk food 2.93 Moderately Aware

increases the risk of NCDs
Junk foods almost have no nutrients on it. 3.76 Aware
Junk food refers to fast foods which are 3.9 Aware

easy to make and easy to consume.
Junk consumption strongly associated with 2.93 Moderately Aware

insulin resistance & T2DM
Junk food leads increases the risk of heart 3.76 Aware

failure
Junk food in the main cause of Obesity 3.8 Aware
Junk food is carcinogenic for kidney & 3.47 Moderately Aware

esophagus
T2DM: Type II diabetes mellitus, NCD: Non- Communicable disease
Table 2 contains 12 statements to assess respondent’s awareness on the effects on eating
junk foods. Of the twelve items listed 1 and 2 received fully aware. Item 1 intends “Junk food
consumption lead to extra weight gain” that acquired a weighted mean of 4.63. This means that
students are fully aware that eating junk food leads to extra weight gain. The next item generates
strong awareness. Item 2 which states “Soft drinks can cause diseases such as diabetes.” Gained a
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weighted mean of 4.6, this indicates the level of awareness of the students on the effect of drinking soft
drinks can cause illnesses such as diabetes.
Item 4 which states “Eating salty food and fatty food cause diseases” obtained a weighted
mean of 3.53 which signifies that the students witnessed someone who is suffering an illness due to
eating salty and fatty food. Item 3,5, 7, 8, 10 and 11 which state that “Most of food sold in school are
unhealthy foods (junk foods, softdrinks, etc.)”, “Food closest to highway is more prone to dirt that
causes bacteria.”, “Junk foods almost have no nutrients on it.”, “Junk food refers to fast foods which are
easy to make and easy to consume”, “Junk food leads increases the risk of heart failure” , and “Junk
food in the main cause of Obesity”, obtained weighted mean of 3.93, 4, 3.76, 3.9, 3.76. and 3.8, this
indicates that most of the student are aware that junk foods may lead their lives into risks.
Item 6, 9, and 11 which states that “Frequent consumption of junk food increases the risk of
NCDs”, “Junk consumption strongly associated with insulin resistance & T2DM”, “Junk food is
carcinogenic for kidney & esophagus” gained weighted mean of 2.93, 2.93, and 3.47. This suggests
that m ost of the respondents are not properly educated on how onsumption of junk foods, particularly
sweetened beverages like fruit drinks, carbonated soft drinks, and energy drinks, has been linked to the
development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risks.
III. Significant relationship between the socio-demographic profiles of the respondents and their level of
awareness on the effects of eating junk foods.
PROFILE AWARENESS ON THE EFFECTS OF EATING JUNK FOODS
R-value Degree of Correlation
Sex 0.002 The correlation is very weak
Age 0.124 The correlation is very weak

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Place of Residence 0.195 The correlation is very weak
Mother's Educational 0.251 Correlation enough
Attachment
Father's Educational 0. 218 The correlation is very weak
Attainment
Table 3 shows the significant relationship between the respondent’s socio-demographic profile
and their level of awareness on the effects of eating junk food. As to sex, when the observed and
expected frequencies were subjected to this pearson r test of independence, an r value of 0.002 was
obtained which is more less than criterion value of 0.195. So that, the pearson r value is not significant
consequently, the raised null hypothesis which is “There no significant relationship between the sex of
the respondents and the awareness on the effects of eating junk food” was accepted. These testify that
the sex does not affect the awareness of the students on the effect of eating junk food because they
already know it. According to the study of Ahmed SS et al., (2024), watching television is a contributing
factor to bingeing on fast food, fostering unhealthy dietary habits, particularly among children. In
contemporary times, social media has a significant influence, especially on the youth, as enticing
videos and appealing images lead to cravings for unhealthy food varieties. Ahmed et al. (2024) also
stated that Fast food consumption has become prevalent among the youth, driven by factors such as
convenience and affordability, especially for students studying away from home.
The null hypothesis “There is no significant relationship between the age of the respondents
and their awareness on the effects of eating junk foods” was also accepted as the 0.195 criterion value
of pearson r is greater than the r value of 0.124. It indicates that age does not influence their awareness
of the respondents on the effects of eating junk food. This is because regardless of the respondent’s
age, if they are observant, they will be aware of what happens in their body. As stated on “Effect of
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Demographic Factors on Health Behavior” by Abhijeet Pratap (2019), there will be a drastic change
between how teens behave at 13 years old compared to when they are 18 years old. Yet, it won’t affect
their food choice. It will develop based on their own perception on what they think are more fit to their
taste and what will satisfy them the most. This finding is supported by another study conducted in Nepal
which stated that the reasons for consumption of junk foods were due to better taste (82.9%), and easy
availability (38.1%).
The null hypothesis “There is significant relationship between the respondent’s place of
residence and the awareness on the effects of eating unhealthy foods” was also accepted as the 0.195
criterion value of pearson r is the same with the r value of 0.195. It means that the place of residence of
the respondents affects the respondent’s awareness on the effects of eating junk foods. According the
study of Affret et al., (2017) place of birth and the place of residence were both associated with diet.
Women living in urban areas were more prone to follow a healthy diet than their counterparts living in
rural areas or smaller cities. Other studies have similarly observed that in France, with globalization and
changes in diet and physical activity habits, rural populations are nowadays more likely to be obese and
to follow unhealthy diets. It has also been reported that women living in urban areas were less likely to
follow a ‘traditional’ diet that includes several unhealthy foods. This finding is consistent with another
study conducted in India, with its diverse culture across regions and states, has traditionally valued
home-cooked meals. However, urbanization and the influence of Western culture have led to a shift in
food consumption patterns, with an increasing acceptance of global delicacies. The fast-food industry in
India is expanding at a rapid rate, growing by 40% annually.
Table 3 shows the relationship between the mother's educational attainment of the respondents, it
shows that computed r value 0. 251 which was more than the critical value 0.195, testifies that the
students’ mother’s educational attainment has a effect on the awareness of students towards eating
junk foods was accepted. Respondents’ father’s educational attainment also has a relationship to the
xxviii
awareness towards eating junk foods for the computed r value 0.218 was higher than critical value
0.195. This implies that the student’s parents ducational attainment has a significant effect on the
awareness of the respondents’ regards eating junk foods was accepted. Education has been widely
studied in connection to health and food choices for several reasons. First, it may provide the tools to
access and comprehend dietary information and its impact on health. Second, social diffusion theory
suggests that highly educated people generally take up innovations sooner than less-educated
(Worsely et al., 2004). Studies concluded that parents’ influence is thought to be strongest during
childhood, especially in early ages, when parents act as role models, enforcers and providers. For
instance, highly educated mothers tend to be more emotionally responsive and have more positive and
less hostile interactions with their children, compared with mothers with lower levels of education
(Klebanov et al., 1994). Parental dietary patterns seem to affect children most, as parents are the ones
who shape the home food environment, influence how a child thinks about food, and, accordingly, start
forming their own food preferences and eating behaviors (Scaglioni et al., 2018).
xxix
CHAPTER IV
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
This chapter shows the summary of the study, conclusions and the recommendations for the
study.
SUMMARY
1. The socio-demographic profile of the respondents including the sex, age, parents’ educational
attainment and place of residence, there were 19 female respondents out of 30 respondents
and there were 57.00% respondents ages 17, most of their parents’ educational attainement
are college graduates and most of the respondents lives in rural area.
2. The 30 senior high school students of Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College – Laboratory High
School are aware that junk foods are not good for their health.
3. The respondent’s socio-demographic profile sex, age, place of residence of Grade 12 students
did not affect and influence them on their level of awareness on the effects of eating junk foods.
xxx
While the students’ mother’s educational atttainement and father’s educational attainment have
a significant effect on their level of awareness on the effects of eating junk foods.
CONCLUSION
1. The findings concluded that most of the respondents are female and between the ages of 17-
18, most of the respondents are ages 17, most of their parents’ educational attainement are
college graduate and 100% of the respondent’s lives in rural area.
2. Sex did not affect the level of awareness of the students on the effects of eating junk food
because they already knew it.
3. The age of the respondents did not influence their awareness on the effects of eating junk food.
This is because regardless of the respondent’s age, if they are observant, they will be aware of
what will happen in their body.
4. The findings concluded that the respondent’s parent’s educational attainement did affect their
level of awareness regarding the effects of eating junk foods. Because parental dietary patterns
seem to affect children most, as parents are the ones who shape the home food environment,
influence how a child thinks about food, and, accordingly, start forming their own food
preferences and eating behaviors (Scaglioni et al., 2018).
5. The place of residence of the respondents did affect the respondent’s awareness on the effects
of eating unhealthy food. The place of birth and the place of residence were both associated
with diet. With globalization and changes in diet and physical activity habits have led to a shift
in food consumption patterns, with an increasing acceptance of global delicacies.
6. Fast food consumption has become prevalent among the youth, driven by factors such as
convenience and affordability, especially for students studying away from home.
RECOMMENDATION
xxxi
Based on the results of the study, the following measures are recommended:
1) The school administration should develop a program to ensure the cafeteria offers healthier
food options. This includes monitoring the school canteen and cafeteria 2-3 times a month to
ensure they are consistently providing a healthy menu.
2) Canteen vendors and staff should be required to attend health seminars to learn how to
prepare and serve healthy food, improving the health of both students and teachers. They
should also wear proper attire to maintain food hygiene.
3) The Department of Education should conduct seminars for school staff, including canteen
vendors and teachers, to promote knowledge about healthy food practices. Department of
Health should consider visiting schools and universities under them. This is to ensure that the
canteens will include healthier food offerings and choices to the students.
4) Students should have an organization that advocates awareness about the effects of eating
junk foods and join activities that will benefit their health like feeding program.
5) Students may conduct similar study with larger population in order to gather more reliable and
concrete results that may improve the research.

xxxii
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are-not-growing-healthily
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

LABORATORY HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL – GRADE 12
March 19, 2024
DR. ARLENE P. ABLOG

Principal, LHS
Sta. Maria Ilocos Sur
Dear Ma’am,
Greetings of Peace!
The undersigned are Senior High School students from ISPSC - Laboratory High School, Sta. Maria Campus,
and are currently conducting a study entitled “Level of Awareness of Grade 12 Students of Ilocos Sur Polytechnic
State College - Laboratory High School on the Effects of Eating Junk Foods,” as a requirement in our applied
subject, Practical Research 2.
In this regard, we would like to request your approval to allow us to conduct the study with the Grade 12 Senior
High School students as our respondents. Rest assured that all data derived herein will be treated with utmost
confidentiality and will be used only for this study.
Your approval to this worthwhile endeavor is expected and best appreciated. Thank you very much!
Respectfully yours,
xxxv
JOANNA GRACE G. ORDONEZ
RAYMA ABIGAIL B. RACCA

Researchers
Approved by:
ARLENE P. ABLOG, Ed.D.

Principal
Profile Checklist. Directions: Put a check (ü) mark in the box provided in each item which corresponds to your
answer. For others, please write what is needed.
Name of Respondent (Optional): _____________________________
Age:___ Sex:___
Residency: __ Rural __ Urban
Mother’s Educational Attainment:
□ Elementary Undergraduate
□ Elementary Graduate
□ High School Undergraduate
□ High School Graduate
□ College Undergraduate
xxxvi
□ College Graduate □ If others, please specify: ____________________
Father’s Educational Attainment:
□ Elementary Undergraduate
□ Elementary Graduate
□ High School Undergraduate
□ High School Graduate
□ College Undergraduate
□ College Graduate □ If others, please specify: ____________________

xxxvii
II. Level of Respondent’s Awareness on Eating Junk Foods
WM Verbal Description
Junk food consumption lead to extra weight 4.63 Fully Aware

gain
Soft drinks can cause diseases such as 4.6 Fully Aware

diabetes.
Most of food sold in school are unhealthy 3.93 Aware

foods (junk foods, softdrinks, etc.)
Eating salty food and fatty food cause 4.43 Aware

diseases.
Food closest to highway is more prone to 4 Aware

dirt that causes bacteria.
Frequent consumption of junk food 2.93 Moderately Aware

increases the risk of NCDs
Junk foods almost have no nutrients on it. 3.76 Aware
Junk food refers to fast foods which are 3.9 Aware

easy to make and easy to consume.
Junk consumption strongly associated with 2.93 Moderately Aware

insulin resistance & T2DM
Junk food leads increases the risk of heart 3.76 Aware

failure
Junk food in the main cause of Obesity 3.8 Aware
Junk food is carcinogenic for kidney & 3.47 Moderately Aware

esophagus
T2DM: Type II diabetes mellitus, NCD: Non- Communicable disease

xxxviii
JOANNA GRACE G. ORDONEZ

Cappa-Cappa, San Esteban, Ilocos Sur
09353915819
[email protected]
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name: Joanna Grace G. Ordonez
Age: 17
Address: Cappa-Cappa, San Esteban,
Ilocos Sur
Birthdate: June 27, 2006
Place of Birth: San Pablo, San Esteban, Ilocos Sur
Sex: Female
Citizen: Filipino
Religion: Roman Catholic
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Elementary: San Esteban North Central School
Villa Quirino, San Esteban, Ilocos Sur
2017 - 2018
Secondary: Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College

Junior High School Laboratory High School
Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur
2021-2022
Senior High School Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College

Present
xxxix
RAYMA ABIGAIL B. RACCA

San Antonio, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur
09361996414
[email protected]
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name: Rayma Abigail Racca
Age: 17
Address: San Antonio, Narvacan,
Ilocos Sur
Birthdate: January 18, 2007
Place of Birth: Taft Avenue, Manila
Sex: Female
Citizen: Filipino
Religion: Roman Catholic
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Elementary: Santa Maria West Central School
2017 - 2018
Secondary: Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College

Junior High School Laboratory High School
2021-2022
Senior High School Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College

Present

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i

LEVEL OF AWARENESS OF GRADE 12 STUDENTS ILOCOS SUR POLYTECHNIC STATE

Ordonez, Joanna Grace G.

A Research Report Presented by the Researchers of

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement for the Applied Subject

support, assistance, and contributions to make this research a success.

researchers needed to fill for the research.

throughout our research and its successful completion.

Again, thank you all very much.

- JGGO & RABR

citizens, to future generations and above all, to the Lord God.

- JGGO & RABR

Dr. Arlene P. Ablog, Ed. D

Keywords: awareness, effects, junk foods, students, dietary patterns

Overview of the Study 7

Statement of the Problem 8

Review of Related Literature 11

Objectives of the Study 13

Time and Place of the Study 13

Scope and Delimitation 13

CHAPTER II: METHODOLOGY

Participant of the Study 15

Data Gathering Instrument 15

CHAPTER III: PRESENTATION, ANALYIS, AND

Findings of the Study 18

CHAPTER IV: RESULT AND DISCUSSION

Statement of the Problem

Laboratory High School on the effects of eating junk foods.

Specifically, it aims to seek answers to the following:

1. What is the profile of the respondents in terms of:

c. Place of residence, and

d. Education attainment of Parents?

2. What is the respondents’ level of awareness on the effects of junk foods?

3. Is there any significant relationship between the socio-demographic profiles of the

Independent Variable Dependent Variable

Figure I. The Research Paradigm

knowledge and less healthy options in the school ccafeteria.

Importance of the Study

The result of the study will be beneficial to the following sectors:

allow them to be more mindful in the foods they consume.

for future planning and formulation of health policies.

Review of Related Literature

diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia etc.

adolescents and young adults than other age groups.

links with movies and sports personalities. (Katrina Stokes, 2015).

Students Level of Awareness on Effects of Eating Junk Foods

and less healthy options in the Cafeteria.

Objectives of the Study

Time and Place of the Study

Poblacion Norte, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur.

Scope and Delimitation

elements present to common junk foods existing in school cafeterias.

Fat- Tax. Considered to be unhealthy that can lead to obesity.

Micronutrients. These are essential elements needed by life in small quantities.

Nutritional value. The factor that makes a certain product nutritious.

Participants of the Study

participated in the study.

Data Gathering Instrument

for this study. The survey questionnaire has three parts: