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Myers KP, Temple JL. Translational science approaches for food insecurity research. Appetite 2024; 200:107513. [PMID: 38795946 PMCID: PMC11227396 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Food insecurity is a pervasive problem that impacts health and well-being across the lifespan. The human research linking food insecurity to poor metabolic and behavioral health outcomes is inherently correlational and suffers from a high degree of variability both between households and even within the same household over time. Further, food insecurity is impacted by societal and political factors that are largely out of the control of individuals, which narrows the range of intervention strategies. Animal models of food insecurity are being developed to address some of the barriers to mechanistic research. However, animal models are limited in their ability to consider some of the more complex societal elements of the human condition. We believe that understanding the role that food insecurity plays in ingestive behavior and chronic disease requires a truly translational approach, and that understanding the health impacts of this complex social phenomenon requires understanding both its psychological and physiological dimensions. This brief review will outline some key features of food insecurity, highlighting those that are amenable to investigation with controlled animal models and identifying areas where integrating animal and human studies can improve our understanding of the psychological burden and health impacts of food insecurity. In the interest of brevity, this review will largely focus on food insecurity in the United States, as the factors that contribute to food insecurity vary considerably across the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin P Myers
- Department of Psychology, Animal Behavior & Neuroscience Programs, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, PA, USA.
| | - Jennifer L Temple
- Departments of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
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Burns J, Norton DM, Cooper PN, Day PE, Rao MY, Sanchez Parra CA, Kiener AJ. Food insecurity in children with heart disease. Curr Opin Pediatr 2024; 36:473-479. [PMID: 38655802 DOI: 10.1097/mop.0000000000001348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review discusses the epidemiology of food insecurity (FI) and its consequences in children with congenital heart disease. We aimed to highlight current interventions to screen and address food insecurity in the context of pediatric cardiology and to offer strategies for providers to engage in this meaningful work. RECENT FINDINGS Food insecurity is consistently associated with poor health outcomes in children. In the United States, 17.3% of households with children experience FI. Nonwhite and single-parent families are disproportionately affected. Interestingly, because of a low-quality diet, FI is associated with childhood obesity, putting affected children at increased risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality over time. Children with congenital heart disease are susceptible to poor outcomes due to unique altered metabolic demands, increased risk for growth impairment, frequent need for specialized feeding regimens, and additional morbidity associated with heart surgery in underweight children. SUMMARY Today, the burden of screening for FI is most commonly placed on general pediatricians. Considering the importance of nutrition to cardiovascular health and general wellbeing, and the ease with which screening can be performed, pediatric cardiologists and other subspecialists should take a more active role in FI screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Burns
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Pediatric Cardiology, Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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Darlington WS, Syed S, Wroblewski K, Lapping-Carr G, Lindau ST, Peddinti R. Food insecurity and quality of life in patients with sickle cell disease. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2024; 71:e31045. [PMID: 38687256 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.31045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Little is known about the relationship between quality of life (QOL) and food insecurity (FI) among patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). We hypothesized FI is associated with lower QOL in children and young adults with SCD. Overall (N = 99), 22% screened positive for FI. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) enrollment was 50 and 71% among people from food secure and FI households, respectively. A higher FI score was correlated with lower overall QOL (r = -0.22, p = .03), specifically lower QOL in worry and communication domains. Interventions for FI beyond SNAP may be important for QOL among people living with SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy S Darlington
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital, Chicago, USA
| | - Sharjeel Syed
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Kristen Wroblewski
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Gabrielle Lapping-Carr
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital, Chicago, USA
| | - Stacy Tessler Lindau
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology-Gynecologic Oncology, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
- Department of Medicine-Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
- University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, USA
| | - Radhika Peddinti
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital, Chicago, USA
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Edwards KL, Blissett J, Croker H, Farrow C, Herle M, Kininmonth A, Llewellyn C, Pickard A, Haycraft E. Examining parents' experiences and challenges of feeding preschool children with avid eating behaviour. Appetite 2024; 198:107372. [PMID: 38657683 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Avid eating behaviours, including greater responsiveness to food cues and emotional over-eating, have been linked to child overweight and obesity. Parental feeding practices are modifiable components of a child's food environment and may be key levers for behaviour change in tailored interventions to support parents of children with avid eating behaviour. However, there is a lack of research examining parents' experiences in this context. This study aimed to explore parents' experiences of feeding children with avid eating behaviour and to understand any challenges experienced in this context. Semi-structured interviews with parents (N = 15) of a preschool child (3-5 years) identified as having an avid eating behaviour profile explored how children's avid eating manifests, the parental feeding practices used to manage avid eating, and the perceived effectiveness of these strategies. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Four core themes were generated. Theme one, 'Have they got worms? Children's insatiable hunger', captures parents' interpretation of the complex ways in which avid eating behaviour manifests. Theme two, 'Parenthood as a duty', illustrates how parents' perceived responsibilities shape their feeding practices. Theme three, 'Lifelong habits', captures parents' use of responsive feeding practices to support children's healthy relationship with food. Theme four, 'Picking battles', captures the structure- and coercive-based feeding strategies commonly used to manage children's avid eating. This novel study provides an in-depth understanding of the complex ways that children's avid eating behaviour manifests, and the strategic and creative parental feeding practices used to manage these behaviours. Such findings are valuable for informing the development of future support resources for parents/caregivers to help their children with avid eating behaviours to develop a healthy relationship with food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie L Edwards
- School of Psychology and Institute of Health and Neurodevelopment, Aston University, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Jacqueline Blissett
- School of Psychology and Institute of Health and Neurodevelopment, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Helen Croker
- World Cancer Research Fund International, London, UK
| | - Claire Farrow
- School of Psychology and Institute of Health and Neurodevelopment, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Moritz Herle
- Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Alice Kininmonth
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Clare Llewellyn
- Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | - Abigail Pickard
- School of Psychology and Institute of Health and Neurodevelopment, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Emma Haycraft
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
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Onyeaka H, Ejiohuo O, Taiwo OR, Nnaji ND, Odeyemi OA, Duan K, Nwaiwu O, Odeyemi O. The Intersection of Food Security and Mental Health in the Pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals. Nutrients 2024; 16:2036. [PMID: 38999784 PMCID: PMC11243539 DOI: 10.3390/nu16132036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Food insecurity, a multifaceted global challenge, intertwines with mental health concerns, necessitating nuanced strategies for sustainable solutions. The intricate web of challenges posed by these intersections has made it imperative to delineate a strategic way forward, incorporating solutions and robust policy recommendations. This study aims to comprehensively examine the intricate relationship between food security and its intersection with mental health on a global scale, offering insights into case studies, responses, and innovative approaches to inform effective strategies for addressing these pressing challenges. This study involved an analysis of a literature search, mainly between 2013 and 2023, with an updated addition of relevant 2024 studies. Examining responses across regions unveils varied interventions, from targeted social safety net programs in West Africa to technology-driven solutions in Asia. Success stories, such as Ghana's sustainable agricultural practices and Canada's income transfer programs, underscore the efficacy of multifaceted approaches. Innovative initiatives like community food programs offer promising alternatives to traditional food banks. Furthermore, international cooperation and policy innovations, exemplified by the European Union's "Farm to Fork Strategy", demonstrate the potential for collective action in addressing food insecurity. By prioritizing integrated strategies, global collaboration, and evidence-based policymaking, we lay the groundwork for sustainable development where communities thrive nutritionally and mentally. We emphasize continuous research and evaluation and incorporating mental health support into community programs to pave the way for a future where communities are not only food-secure but also mentally resilient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Onyeaka
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B152TT, UK; (N.D.N.); (O.N.)
| | - Ovinuchi Ejiohuo
- Department of Psychiatric Genetics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
- Doctoral School, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Bukowska 70, 60-812 Poznan, Poland
- Molecular and Cell Biology Unit, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-572 Poznan, Poland
| | - Oluseyi Rotimi Taiwo
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200132, Oyo, Nigeria;
| | - Nnabueze Darlington Nnaji
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B152TT, UK; (N.D.N.); (O.N.)
- Department of Microbiology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu 410001, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Omowale A. Odeyemi
- College of Nursing, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, Ile Ife 220005, Osun, Nigeria;
| | - Keru Duan
- Birmingham Business School, Department of Management, University of Birmingham, University House Edgbaston Park Road, Birmingham B15 2TY, UK;
| | - Ogueri Nwaiwu
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B152TT, UK; (N.D.N.); (O.N.)
| | - Olumide Odeyemi
- Ecology and Biodiversity Centre, Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS), University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7004, Australia;
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Thielman J, Orr S, Naraentheraraja S, Harrington D, Carsley S. Cross-sectional analysis of the association between household food insecurity and mental health conditions in children aged 5-11 years in Canada. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e081538. [PMID: 38925691 PMCID: PMC11202637 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-081538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children living in food insecure households have poorer mental health outcomes compared with their food-secure peers; however, the relationship between the severity of food insecurity and diagnosed mental health conditions in young children remains unknown. This study examined the association between household food insecurity and reported diagnosed mental health conditions among children aged 5-11 years in Canada. METHODS This study included 16 216 children aged 5-11 years living in Canada, from the 2019 Canadian Health Survey on Children and Youth. We measured household food insecurity using the Household Food Security Survey Module. We measured diagnosed mental health conditions by parent/caregiver report of health professional-diagnosed anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder or attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder. We developed a multivariable logistic regression model to assess the association between severities of food insecurity and mental health, controlling for potentially confounding variables. RESULTS 17.0% of children lived in households reporting some level of food insecurity (5.4% marginal, 8.0% moderate and 3.6% severe). The prevalence of at least one diagnosed mental health condition in the same population was 10.9%. After adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, children from marginal, moderate and severe food insecure households had a 1.39 (95% CI 0.99 to 1.97), 1.46 (95% CI 1.13 to 1.89) and 1.67 (95% CI 1.18 to 2.35) increased odds of having a diagnosed mental health condition, respectively. CONCLUSION Household food insecurity is associated with an increased presence of diagnosed mental health conditions in children aged 5-11 years. This study adds to the body of research showing that social and economic inequities, including household food insecurity, negatively impact the health of children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Thielman
- Health Promotion, Chronic, Disease and Injury Prevention, Public Health Ontario, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sarah Orr
- Health Promotion, Chronic, Disease and Injury Prevention, Public Health Ontario, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Daniel Harrington
- Health Promotion, Chronic, Disease and Injury Prevention, Public Health Ontario, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sarah Carsley
- Health Promotion, Chronic, Disease and Injury Prevention, Public Health Ontario, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Cho S. Child meal support program, food and nutrition insecurity, and health among Korean children. Nutr Health 2024:2601060241261437. [PMID: 38887061 DOI: 10.1177/02601060241261437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Korea's child meal support program (CMSP) aims to reduce food and nutrition insecurity (FNI) and improve health among children from low-income households. AIM We examined the impact of different types of CMSP on children's FNI and health in Korea, analyzing meal frequency and healthful food consumption (FNI), and general health and depression (health) among child meal card (CMC) and facility meal service (FMS) participants compared with nonparticipants. METHODS The 2018 Comprehensive Survey on Korean Children data were analyzed. Precisely, 847 children from low-income households aged 9-17 were categorized into CMC (n = 331), FMS (n = 209), and income-eligible nonparticipants (n = 307). Propensity score-weighted generalized linear models assessed CMSP's impact on FNI and health. Stratified generalized linear models examined heterogeneity in FNI-health associations by CMSP status. RESULTS CMC participants reported more frequent breakfast consumption (odds ratio [OR] = 0.662, p < 0.05) but poorer self-rated general health (OR = 1.890, p < 0.05); FMS participants were less likely to have three meals (OR = 1.814, p < 0.05), fruits and vegetables (OR = 2.194, p < 0.001), and protein-rich foods daily (OR = 1.695, p < 0.05) than nonparticipants. Health risks associated with healthful food consumption and meal frequency were more pronounced among CMC and FMS/nonparticipants, respectively. CONCLUSION CMSP had a limited impact on reducing FNI and improving health among children from low-income households. CMC appeared more effective than FMS in alleviating FNI, notwithstanding potential health concerns. Food assistance programs should seek comprehensive enhancements in children's food and nutrition security and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seongha Cho
- Department of Social Welfare, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Social Welfare, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Amad T, Valera P, Sackey J, Baquerizo H, Malarkey S, Acevedo S. COVID-19 on Food Insecurity in Hispanic/Latino Essential and Non-essential Workers. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024:10.1007/s40615-024-01937-x. [PMID: 38466511 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-024-01937-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic's economic fallout has further exacerbated the health and well-being among Hispanics/Latinos, who maybe overrepresented in essential job industries and are vulnerable to experiencing food insecurity. This study explores whether the COVID-19 pandemic affected food security status differently among Latino/Hispanic essential and non-essential workers in the United States. METHODS The COVID-19 Latino health cross-sectional survey was conducted and administered in person and virtually. Bivariate analyses and chi-square tests were performed to investigate the association between essential worker status and changes in food security status during the COVID-19 pandemic. All reported p-values were two-sided; p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Of the 869 Hispanic/Latino respondents, 393 (45%) were deemed essential workers, and 476 (55%) were non-essential workers. About 22% of essential workers reported a household income of less than $20,000, whereas 19% of non-essential workers had an income above $100,000. Half (54%) of essential workers reported food insecurity. Over one-third (35%) of essential and 22% of non-essential workers reported increased food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, there was a significant difference in food insecurity status between essential and non-essential Hispanic/Latino workers (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION The results underscore the prevalence of food insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to create comprehensive food policies that address the lack of availability of adequate food among Hispanic/Latino essential workers who already face pandemic-related challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tajrian Amad
- Rutgers University School of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Piscataway, NJ, United States
- Community Health Justice Lab (www.chjl.org), Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Pamela Valera
- Rutgers School of Public Health, Department of Urban-Global Public Health, 1 Riverfront Plaza, 10th Floor, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA.
- Community Health Justice Lab (www.chjl.org), Newark, NJ, United States.
- Rutgers University, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States.
| | - Joachim Sackey
- Rutgers University, School of Health Professions, Newark, NJ, United States
- Community Health Justice Lab (www.chjl.org), Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Humberto Baquerizo
- Community Health Justice Lab (www.chjl.org), Newark, NJ, United States
- Rutgers University, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Sarah Malarkey
- Rutgers University School of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Piscataway, NJ, United States
- Community Health Justice Lab (www.chjl.org), Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Sebastian Acevedo
- Rutgers School of Public Health, Department of Urban-Global Public Health, 1 Riverfront Plaza, 10th Floor, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
- Community Health Justice Lab (www.chjl.org), Newark, NJ, United States
- Rutgers University, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
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Hardy RY, Boch SJ, Davenport MA, Chavez LJ, Kelleher KJ. Rural-urban differences in social and emotional protective factors and their association with child health and flourishing. J Rural Health 2024; 40:314-325. [PMID: 37859615 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children in rural communities experience higher mortality rates and less access to health care services than those in urban communities. Protective factors like social support also vary by geography, but their contribution to differences in child health is understudied. Understanding geographic variation in protective health factors could provide insight into their impact on health and guide future intervention strategies. RESEARCH OBJECTIVE To examine protective factors' association with child flourishing and child health status in rural and urban communities. METHODS Publicly available data from the National Survey of Children's Health, 2018-2021, with nonmissing geographic data (N = 150,493) were used to assess the relationship between protective factors and child flourishing and health by rurality. Multivariate survey-weighted probit models examined these relationships, adjusting for child and caregiver characteristics. FINDINGS More than a third of children were not flourishing, according to parental report. An estimated 62% of rural children were flourishing compared to 66% of urban children (P<0.001). Urban caregivers also were more likely to report better adult mental and physical health status. Nevertheless, rural children were reported to receive more social support than urban children, while their caregivers reported more emotional support and living in supportive and safe neighborhoods (P<0.001). Rural caregivers reported more support from places of worship and less from counselors/other mental health care providers than urban caregivers. CONCLUSIONS Despite higher reported caregiver emotional support and child social support, fewer rural children are flourishing. Health systems and community organizations able to leverage these existing social and emotional protective factors in rural communities could help close this gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose Y Hardy
- Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Samantha J Boch
- College of Nursing, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- The James M. Anderson Center for Health Systems Excellence, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Mattina A Davenport
- Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Laura J Chavez
- Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Kelly J Kelleher
- Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Anyigbo C, Liu C, Ehrlich S, Reyner A, Ammerman RT, Kahn RS. Household Health-Related Social Needs in Newborns and Infant Behavioral Functioning at 6 Months. JAMA Pediatr 2024; 178:160-167. [PMID: 38147349 PMCID: PMC10751658 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2023.5721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Importance Dysfunctional patterns of behavior during infancy can predict the emergence of mental health disorders later in childhood. The Baby Pediatric Symptom Checklist (BPSC) can identify indicators of behavioral disorders among children aged 0 to 18 months. Understanding the association of early health-related social needs (HRSNs) with poor infant behavioral functioning can inform interventions to promote early childhood mental well-being. Objective To examine the association between household HRSNs in the first 4 months of life and BPSC results at 6 months. Design, Setting, and Participants This was a retrospective cohort analysis of longitudinal electronic health record data. Covariates were selected based on the biopsychosocial ecological model. Logistic regression analyses examined the association of HRSN domains and the number of HRSNs with the 6-month BPSC outcomes. Participants were recruited from 6 primary care clinics within 1 health system. Children aged 5 to 8 months who were evaluated for 6-month well-child visits between March 30, 2021, and June 30, 2022, were included in the study. Exposure Responses to the first HRSN screening tool that a caregiver completed for infants between 0 and 4 months of age. HRSN domains were examined individually and as the number of positive HRSNs. Main Outcome and Measures BPSC screen identified for clinical review due to 1 or more elevated subscales (inflexibility, irritability, and difficulty with routines) at 6 months. Results A total of 1541 children (mean [SD] age, 6.1 [0.5] months; 775 female [50.3%]) were included in the study. A total of 405 children (26.3%) had a BPSC screen identified for clinical review, and 328 caregivers (21.3%) reported at least 1 HRSN. Food insecurity (174 [11.3%]) and benefits issues (169 [11.0%]) were the most frequently reported HRSN. Children in households with food insecurity had statistically significant higher odds of inflexibility (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.73; 95% CI, 1.14-2.63), difficulty with routines (aOR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.05-2.57), and irritability (aOR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.13-3.08) than children in households without food insecurity. Children in households with benefits issues had statistically significant higher odds of difficulty with routines (aOR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.10-2.65) and irritability (aOR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.03-2.82). Children in households with 2 or more HRSNs had consistently higher odds of having a BPSC screen identified for clinical review (aOR, 2.16; 95% CI, 1.38-3.39) compared with children with no HRSNs. Conclusions and Relevance Results of this cohort study suggest that household food insecurity, benefits issues, and the number of HRSNs were significantly associated with a BPSC screen identified for clinical review at 6 months of age. These findings highlight the urgency of intervening on HRSNs in the newborn period to prevent adverse infant behavioral outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chidiogo Anyigbo
- Division of General and Community Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Shelley Ehrlich
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Allison Reyner
- James M. Anderson Center for Health Systems Excellence, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Robert T. Ammerman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Robert S. Kahn
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Michael Fisher Child Health Equity Center, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
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Herman DR, Westfall M, Bashir M, Afulani P. Food Insecurity and Mental Distress Among WIC-Eligible Women in the United States: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Acad Nutr Diet 2024; 124:65-79. [PMID: 37717918 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2023.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women living in Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)-eligible households may be pregnant or breastfeeding. Stress during pregnancy and breastfeeding may influence women's mental health making them more vulnerable to higher rates of food insecurity (FI). OBJECTIVE Determine whether or not FI is associated with moderate-to-severe mental distress among women living in WIC-eligible households, and whether or not the strength of the association differs among WIC participants compared with eligible nonparticipants with low income. DESIGN Cross-sectional data from the 2011-2018 National Health Interview Survey were utilized. PARTICIPANTS/SETTING A total of 7,700 women living in WIC-eligible households with at least one child were analyzed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Moderate-to-severe mental distress was measured using the validated K6 nonspecific psychological distress scale. FI was measured using the 10-item, US Adult Food Security Survey Module. STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the association between FI and mental distress. The conditional effects of WIC participation were examined by including interaction terms for FI and WIC participation as well as by stratifying the sample by WIC participation. RESULTS Among women in WIC-eligible households, FI was associated with moderate-to-severe mental distress in a dose-response fashion: compared with those who were food secure, the adjusted odds of moderate-to-severe mental distress were 1.8 times higher among those with marginal food security (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.83, 95% CI 1.50 to 2.23), 2.1 times higher among those with low food security (AOR 2.14, 95% CI 1.76 to 2.60), and 3.7 times higher among those with very low food security (AOR 3.73, 95% CI 2.95 to 4.71). The interaction between FI and WIC participation was not significant, with similar associations between FI and mental distress among WIC participants and nonparticipants. CONCLUSIONS Among this nationally representative sample of women in WIC-eligible households, increasing severity of food insecurity was associated with poor mental health among WIC participants and nonparticipants. WIC participation was not observed to moderate the association between FI and mental distress. More research should consider including mental health screening at WIC clinic visits to enable early identification and referral for care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dena R Herman
- Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, California State University, Northridge, Northridge, California; Department of Community Health Sciences, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, California.
| | - Miranda Westfall
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Muna Bashir
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Patience Afulani
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences and Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Institute for Global Health Sciences and Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
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12
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Agudelo-Hernández F, Amaya NV, Cardona M. Suicide in a Colombian indigenous community: Beyond mental illness. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2023; 69:1986-1995. [PMID: 37392003 DOI: 10.1177/00207640231183922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among the causes associated with suicide there are social factors such as forced displacement has been described and health factors in general that have an impact on pediatric mental health. AIMS To describe clinical and psychosocial factors, and their relationship with suicidal behavior in a Colombian indigenous community. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING The mean age were 9.23 years old, 53.7% male and 46.3% female. METHOD Mixed approach study. A thematic analysis was carried out with the youth of the community to investigate emotional aspects. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out and correlations between variables were made. RESULTS Correlations were found between suicidal behavior and medical findings. When comparing the mental health disorders and nutritional problems, statistically significant differences were found in the Suicide Risk domain (<.001). This was reaffirmed in the thematic analysis, where factors such as migration and difficulty understanding the language are highlighted as related to suicidal behavior in the pediatric population. CONCLUSIONS Suicidal behavior should not be approached solely from psychopathology. Hunger, the weakening of one's own culture, armed conflict, migration, and other clinical conditions are found to be associated with suicidal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marisol Cardona
- Pediatrics Program, University of Caldas, Manizales, Colombia
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13
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Kerins C, Furey S, Kerrigan P, McCartan A, Kelly C, Vaughan E. News media framing of food poverty and insecurity in high-income countries: a rapid review. Health Promot Int 2023; 38:daad188. [PMID: 38150220 PMCID: PMC10752350 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daad188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Food poverty and insecurity have become a public health emergency in many high-income countries. News media coverage can shape public and political views towards such issues. This rapid review synthesizes the evidence on how food poverty and insecurity are represented in the news media. Peer-reviewed publications were accessed through three electronic databases, with reference lists of all included studies screened. Primary research studies conducted in high-income countries and published in English since 1995 were included, with no restrictions on study methods. A combination of deductive coding to Entman's framing theory and inductive analysis was used. Ten studies, mostly rated as low quality, were included in the review. Newspapers were the only type of news media examined. The findings showed a largely absent nuanced understanding of food poverty and insecurity, with the problem often defined by food bank use and the consequences mainly focused on physical health. The causes were mostly attributed to structural factors, with the solutions largely focused on charitable food aid. The discourse of recipient (un)deservingness of food aid was evident. Articles often contained views from government officials and charities, with individuals' experiences of food poverty and insecurity largely absent. The findings of this review highlight that a major shift in print media discourse on food poverty and insecurity is required. More balanced and critical news reporting is required to present a more realistic picture of food poverty and insecurity, including its multi-dimensional nature, limitations of food charity and the need for structural solutions to this important issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Kerins
- Health Promotion Research Centre, School of Health Sciences, University of Galway, University Road, Galway H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - Sinéad Furey
- Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Ulster University Business School, Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT52 1SA, United Kingdom
| | - Páraic Kerrigan
- School of Information and Communication Studies, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4 D04 V1W8,Ireland
| | - Aodheen McCartan
- School of Communication and Media, Ulster University, York Street, Belfast, Co. Antrim BT15 1ED, United Kingdom
| | - Colette Kelly
- Health Promotion Research Centre, School of Health Sciences, University of Galway, University Road, Galway H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - Elena Vaughan
- Health Promotion Research Centre, School of Health Sciences, University of Galway, University Road, Galway H91 TK33, Ireland
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14
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Smith L, López Sánchez GF, Oh H, Rahmati M, Tully MA, Yon DK, Butler L, Barnett Y, Ball G, Shin JI, Koyanagi A. Association between food insecurity and depressive symptoms among adolescents aged 12-15 years from 22 low- and middle-income countries. Psychiatry Res 2023; 328:115485. [PMID: 37729716 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Food insecurity may be a risk factor for depression in adolescents. However, data on this topic from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are scarce, despite food insecurity being most common in LMICs. Therefore, we aimed to examine the association between food-insecurity and depressive symptoms among school-going adolescents from 22 LMICs. Cross-sectional data from the Global school-based Student Health Survey were analyzed. Self-report measures assessed past 12-month depressive symptoms and past 30-day food insecurity (hunger). Multivariable logistic regression and meta-analysis were conducted to assess associations. Data on 48,401 adolescents aged 12-15 years were analyzed [mean (SD) age 13.8 (0.9) years; 51.4 % females]. The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 29.3 %, and those of moderate and severe food insecurity were 45.0 and 6.3 %, respectively. After adjustment for potential confounders, compared to no food insecurity, the pooled OR (95 %CI) of moderate and severe food insecurity were 1.36 (1.30-1.42) and 1.81 (1.67-1.97), respectively. The level of between-country heterogeneity was low. Food insecurity was associated with significantly higher odds for depressive symptoms among adolescents in LMICs. Policies to address food insecurity may also help prevent depression in this population, pending future longitudinal research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Smith
- Centre for Health Performance and Wellbeing, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Guillermo F López Sánchez
- Division of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.
| | - Hans Oh
- Suzanne Dworak Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Masoud Rahmati
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Human Sciences, Lorestan University, Khoramabad, Iran; Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Vali-E-Asr University of Rafsanjan, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Mark A Tully
- School of Medicine, Ulster University, Londonderry, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Dong Keon Yon
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Center for Digital Health, Medical Science Research Institute, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Laurie Butler
- Centre for Health Performance and Wellbeing, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Yvonne Barnett
- Centre for Health Performance and Wellbeing, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Graham Ball
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Jae Il Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Severance Underwood Meta-research Center, Institute of Convergence Science, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ai Koyanagi
- Research and Development Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERSAM, ISCIII, Dr. Antoni Pujadas, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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15
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McCarthy M, Vitolins MZ, Skelton JA, Ip EH, Brown CL. A Pilot Study Examining the Association of Parental Stress and Household Food Insecurity with Dietary Quality in Pre-School-Aged Children. Nutrients 2023; 15:3154. [PMID: 37513572 PMCID: PMC10383475 DOI: 10.3390/nu15143154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Adequate dietary quality is necessary for children's appropriate development and may be influenced by family factors. This study with 24 healthy 3-5-year-old children assessed the associations of parental stress and household food insecurity (HFI) with a child's dietary quality. Parents completed three 24 h dietary recalls, and the Healthy Eating Index was calculated to assess dietary quality. Parents also completed a questionnaire, including The Perceived Stress Scale (assessing overall parental stress) and the Hunger Vital Sign screen (assessing HFI). Children's height/weight were measured, and BMIz was calculated. Separate multivariable linear regression models assessed the association of dietary quality components with HFI and parental stress, adjusting for household income, child sex, and child BMI z-score. In bivariate analyses, children with HFI consumed more added sugars, and parental stress was associated with the child's greens/beans intake. In multivariable analysis, HFI was associated with lower total protein scores and higher added sugar intake, while parental stress was associated with lower greens/beans intake. Higher household income was associated with higher total vegetable and sodium intake, and children with a higher BMIz had a lower total protein intake. Parental stress and HFI can impact a child's dietary quality; providers should counsel families on strategies to improve diet quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison McCarthy
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Mara Z Vitolins
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Joseph A Skelton
- Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Edward H Ip
- Department of Biostatistics, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Callie L Brown
- Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
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16
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Eicher-Miller HA, Graves L, McGowan B, Mayfield BJ, Connolly BA, Stevens W, Abbott A. A Scoping Review of Household Factors Contributing to Dietary Quality and Food Security in Low-Income Households with School-Age Children in the United States. Adv Nutr 2023; 14:914-945. [PMID: 37182740 PMCID: PMC10334140 DOI: 10.1016/j.advnut.2023.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Low-income and food-insecure households are at risk of poor dietary quality and even more severe food insecurity. Especially in childhood, consuming a nutritionally adequate diet is an essential driver of health, growth, and development. Household-level factors can present challenges to support the nutritional needs of low-income and food-insecure household members. The aim of this scoping review is to identify the contributing household factors to dietary quality and food security in US households of school-aged children 5 to 19 years and synthesize the evidence around emergent themes for application to future interventions. The scoping review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols Extension for Scoping Reviews using search terms addressing food insecurity, low income, and dietary behaviors in the database PubMed. Screening by 3 independent reviewers of the title, abstract, and full study phases identified 44 studies. The 5 themes around which the studies grouped were: parental behaviors, child/adolescent behaviors, food procurement behaviors, food preparation behaviors, and household environment factors. Most studies were cross-sectional (n = 41, 93%) and focused on parental behaviors (n = 31, 70%), followed by food preparation and procurement behaviors. The themes identified were interrelated and suggest that incorporating education on parent and child behaviors that influence food procurement and preparation, along with strengthening organization and planning in the household environment, may hold promise to improve dietary quality and food security among food-insecure and low-income households. The findings can be used to inform future nutrition education interventions aimed at improving dietary quality and food security in households with school-aged children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa Graves
- Department of Nutrition Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Bethany McGowan
- Libraries and School of Information Studies, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | | | - Blake A Connolly
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue Extension, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Wanda Stevens
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue Extension, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Angela Abbott
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue Extension, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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17
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Abstract
Poor nutrition is the leading cause of poor health, health care spending, and lost productivity in the United States and globally, which acts through cardiometabolic diseases as precursors to cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other conditions. There is great interest in how the social determinants of health (the conditions in which people are born, live, work, develop, and age) impact cardiometabolic disease. Food insecurity is an example of a powerful social determinant of health that impacts health outcomes. Nutrition insecurity, a distinct but related concept to food insecurity, is a direct determinant of health. In this article, we provide an overview of how diet in early life relates to cardiometabolic disease and then continue to focus on the concepts of food insecurity and nutrition insecurity. In the discussions herein we make important distinctions between the concepts of food insecurity and nutrition insecurity and provide a review of their concepts, histories, measurement and assessment devices, trends and prevalence, and links to health and health disparities. The discussions here set the stage for future research and practice to directly address the negative consequences of food and nutrition insecurity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric J Brandt
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine (E.J.B., V.L.M.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation (E.J.B.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Dariush Mozaffarian
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA (D.M.)
| | - Cindy W Leung
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA (C.W.L.)
| | - Seth A Berkowitz
- Division of General Medicine and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine (S.A.B.)
| | - Venkatesh L Murthy
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine (E.J.B., V.L.M.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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18
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Nkwanyana A, Florence M, Swart EC. Scoping review protocol exploring the relationship between food insecurity, mental health and diet intake among adolescents across the globe. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e069436. [PMID: 37105700 PMCID: PMC10152043 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies, exploring the effect of food insecurity on physical and mental health, have shown that food insecurity is associated with lower self-reports of physical and mental health. With the COVID-19 pandemic, food insecurity has increased leading to higher risks of poor mental health. Despite evidence of the negative implications of food insecurity on mental health, there is a paucity of research on these variables for adolescents specifically. The current evidence shows there is a gap in adolescent centred research linking mental health and food insecurity globally. Adolescence is a crucial period of development where habits, nutritional inadequacies linked to food insecurity and mental health problems formed due to these inadequacies can be conveyed into adulthood. The aim of this study is to systematically scope the literature exploring the relationship between mental health, food (in)security and/or diet intake of adolescents. METHODS This review will be guided by Arksey and O'Malley's extended framework. The search strategy was developed by two of the authors and will be used to search literature from January 2012 to December 2022 in PubMed, Academic search complete, PsychARTICLES, Google, ScienceDirect, Scopus and Web of science core collection. Searching published and unpublished literature will be done in the chosen databases. References used in included literature will be reviewed for additional studies/sources. Articles will be assessed for eligibility by two reviewers, and any discrepancies reviewed by a third reviewer. The inclusion and exclusion criteria will be used for screening. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses flow diagram will be used to document the selection process. A narrative summary and descriptive analysis will be used to summarise and report the extracted data. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Approval for this study has been granted by the University of the Western Cape Biomedical Research Ethics Committee (BM21/8/3). Strict measures will be followed to ensure methodological rigour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akhona Nkwanyana
- Department of Psychology, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Maria Florence
- Department of Psychology, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Western Cape, South Africa
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19
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The association of food insecurity with mental health in preschool-aged children and their parents. Pediatr Res 2023:10.1038/s41390-022-02458-1. [PMID: 36599944 PMCID: PMC10318115 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-022-02458-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Household food insecurity (HFI) is associated with poor general and mental health. Prior studies assessed parent and child mental health separately and did not assess other social risks. OBJECTIVE To assess the relationship between HFI and both parental and child mental health. METHODS Parents of 3-5-year-old children completed validated measures of food insecurity and mental health. Separate linear regression models were used for unadjusted analysis for each mental health outcome (parent depression, anxiety, and stress, and child mental health). Multivariable analysis was performed using hierarchical regression to adjust for relevant covariates. RESULTS Children (n = 335) were racially and socioeconomically diverse. HFI was reported in 10% of participants. HFI was associated with worse parent depression and stress in unadjusted analyses; however, after adjusting for covariates, the associations became insignificant. HFI was significantly associated with worse child mental health in unadjusted and multivariable analysis (aβ 2.24, 95% CI 0.59-3.88) compared to those without HFI. CONCLUSION HFI was not associated with parental mental health outcomes when other social risks were included in the analyses; however, HFI was significantly associated with worse childhood mental health in all analyses. Pediatric providers should screen for and develop interventions to target both HFI and mental health. IMPACT Household food insecurity was associated with worse parent depression and stress in unadjusted analyses; however, after adjusting for other social risks, the associations became insignificant. Household food insecurity was significantly associated with worse child mental health, even after adjusting for demographics, other social risks, and parent mental health. Social risks are differentially associated with parent and child mental health. Understanding the complexities of family stressors can help better support parents and children struggling with mental health problems and social risks.
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Smeeth D, McEwen FS, Popham CM, Karam EG, Fayyad J, Saab D, Rieder MJ, Elzagallaai AA, van Uum S, Pluess M. War exposure, post-traumatic stress symptoms and hair cortisol concentrations in Syrian refugee children. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:647-656. [PMID: 36385169 PMCID: PMC9908541 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01859-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Altered secretion of cortisol, the primary effector of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, has been proposed as a means by which traumatic experiences compromise later mental health. However, despite the popularity of cortisol as a potential biomarker for stress and adversity, findings are inconsistent, and little is known about the impact of war-related trauma on stress physiology of children and adolescents. Here we aimed to evaluate the relationships between war exposure, current living conditions, hair cortisol concentrations (HCC) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in a large cohort of Syrian refugee children and adolescents (6-18 years) and their caregiver. This longitudinal observational study assessed Syrian refugee children and adolescents in two waves, 1 year apart, within informal tented settlements in Lebanon. The relationships between war exposure, time since leaving Syria, PTSD symptoms and HCC were investigated using linear mixed-model regression utilising both waves of data collected (Y1: N = 1574, Y2: N = 923). Hair cortisol concentration was positively, but weakly associated with the number of war-related events experienced. This was limited to those who were at least 12 years old at the time of war exposure. Conversely, HCC decreased with time since leaving Syria. HCC was also associated with PTSD symptoms but not with the quality of their current living conditions. This study revealed that changes to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity may accompany both earlier war exposure and current PTSD symptoms in children and adolescents. Additionally, early adolescence may be a particularly sensitive time in terms of trauma-related changes to the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demelza Smeeth
- grid.4868.20000 0001 2171 1133Department of Biological and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Fiona S. McEwen
- grid.4868.20000 0001 2171 1133Department of Biological and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Cassandra M. Popham
- grid.4868.20000 0001 2171 1133Department of Biological and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Elie G. Karam
- grid.429040.bDepartment of Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology, Balamand University, St George Hospital University Medical Center, Institute for Development, Research, Advocacy and Applied Care (IDRAAC), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - John Fayyad
- grid.429040.bDepartment of Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology, Balamand University, St George Hospital University Medical Center, Institute for Development, Research, Advocacy and Applied Care (IDRAAC), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Dahlia Saab
- grid.429040.bDepartment of Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology, Balamand University, St George Hospital University Medical Center, Institute for Development, Research, Advocacy and Applied Care (IDRAAC), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Michael J. Rieder
- grid.39381.300000 0004 1936 8884Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON Canada
| | - Abdelbaset A. Elzagallaai
- grid.39381.300000 0004 1936 8884Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON Canada
| | - Stan van Uum
- grid.39381.300000 0004 1936 8884Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON Canada
| | - Michael Pluess
- Department of Biological and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
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21
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Smith DM, Rixson L, Grove G, Ziauddeen N, Vassilev I, Taheem R, Roderick P, Alwan NA. Household food insecurity risk indices for English neighbourhoods: Measures to support local policy decisions. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267260. [PMID: 36490256 PMCID: PMC9733884 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In England, the responsibility to address food insecurity lies with local government, yet the prevalence of this social inequality is unknown in small subnational areas. In 2018 an index of small-area household food insecurity risk was developed and utilised by public and third sector organisations to target interventions; this measure needed updating to better support decisions in different settings, such as urban and rural areas where pressures on food security differ. METHODS We held interviews with stakeholders (n = 14) and completed a scoping review to identify appropriate variables to create an updated risk measure. We then sourced a range of open access secondary data to develop an indices of food insecurity risk in English neighbourhoods. Following a process of data transformation and normalisation, we tested combinations of variables and identified the most appropriate data to reflect household food insecurity risk in urban and rural areas. RESULTS Eight variables, reflecting both household circumstances and local service availability, were separated into two domains with equal weighting for a new index, the Complex Index, and a subset of these to make up the Simple Index. Within the Complex Index, the Compositional Domain includes population characteristics while the Structural Domain reflects small area access to resources such as grocery stores. The Compositional Domain correlated well with free school meal eligibility (rs = 0.705) and prevalence of childhood obesity (rs = 0.641). This domain was the preferred measure for use in most areas when shared with stakeholders, and when assessed alongside other configurations of the variables. Areas of highest risk were most often located in the North of England. CONCLUSION We recommend the use of the Compositional Domain for all areas, with inclusion of the Structural Domain in rural areas where locational disadvantage makes it more difficult to access resources. These measures can aid local policy makers and planners when allocating resources and interventions to support households who may experience food insecurity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dianna M. Smith
- School of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Wessex, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren Rixson
- School of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Grace Grove
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Wessex, Southampton, United Kingdom
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Nida Ziauddeen
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Wessex, Southampton, United Kingdom
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Ivaylo Vassilev
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Ravita Taheem
- Southampton City Council, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Roderick
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Wessex, Southampton, United Kingdom
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Nisreen A. Alwan
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Wessex, Southampton, United Kingdom
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, United Kingdom
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