Impact of Social Media Engagement and Food Marketing Exposure on Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Jordanian Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of mortality globally and in Jordan, with lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, obesity, and smoking contributing substantially. Social media use has increased among young adults, raising concerns about its influence on lifestyle and exposure to food marketing. Methods : A cross-sectional study was conducted among 222 participants (aged 18–45 years) at the Applied Science Private University in Jordan. Data were collected via a validated online questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviors, dietary habits, and social media use. Anthropometric measures were obtained at the university clinic. Associations between social media use and outcomes were analyzed using chi-square tests and ANCOVA. Results : Most participants were female (75.2%) with a mean age of 21.4 ± 4.9 years. Two-thirds spent 3–6 hours daily on social media. Longer social media use was significantly associated with physical inactivity (p = 0.027), interrupted sleep (p = 0.036), and increased appetite and food cravings (p = 0.021). Exposure to food advertisements was linked to more frequent dining out (p < 0.001) and ordering ready-to-eat foods (p = 0.045). No significant association was found with BMI or body composition. Conclusions : Intensive social media use among young adults is associated with adverse effects on certain lifestyle behaviors and unhealthy eating patterns, which may increase cardiovascular risk. These findings underscore the necessity of incorporating social media exposure into public health interventions and dietary counseling efforts.