Which statement best describes the YFAS purpose?

• A. A measure developed to identify individuals who are most likely to exhibit substance dependence markers with high fat/high sugar foods.
• B. A tool to assess cholesterol levels.
• C. A scale for measuring sleep quality.
• D. An index of daily water intake.

Answer: (B)

YFAS is designed to identify addiction-like patterns toward highly palatable foods by applying DSM-5 substance-use disorder criteria to eating behavior. It looks for features such as cravings, loss of control, continued use despite negative consequences, significant time and effort spent securing or consuming such foods, tolerance, and withdrawal. This helps determine if someone’s relationship with fatty, sugary foods resembles what is seen in substance dependence. It is not a tool for measuring cholesterol levels, sleep quality, or daily water intake, which are assessed by lipid panels/biochemical tests, sleep scales, and hydration measures, respectively. YFAS is commonly used in research and some clinical settings to study food addiction, obesity, and related health outcomes.