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Simmet A, Ehret J, Schleicher R, Teut M, Hummel G, Bschaden A, Stroebele-Benschop N. Multidisciplinary study of the health and nutritional status of persons living in households at risk of poverty with children in Germany (MEGA_kids): Study design and methods. Nutr Health 2024; 30:409-418. [PMID: 38532716 PMCID: PMC11408961 DOI: 10.1177/02601060241242159] [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] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Background: In Germany, the nutritional situation of adults and children living in households at risk of poverty has been insufficiently studied so far. Aim: The aim of the mixed-methods study MEGA_kids is to gain a deeper understanding of the nutritional situation including socioeconomic, behavioral, and attitudinal factors and health characteristics among persons living in families at risk of poverty. Method: MEGA_kids is a mixed-methods cross-sectional study consisting of four modules combining quantitative and qualitative methods. The first module (A) applies self-administered questionnaires to assess the individual's diet, household food insecurity, and several other factors among adults and children of 500 households. Cash receipts are used to assess household's food expenses. For the second module (B), a semistructured interview guide is used to identify factors influencing food security and nutritional quality from the perspective of a subsample of module A (n = 20). The third module (C) applies the participatory World Café technique to explore experiences and generate ideas for tailored support measures for a healthy diet from the perspective of 40 parents participating in module A. Finally, the fourth module (D) investigates the knowledge and usage of existing nutrition-related preventive measures among 200 parents at risk of poverty by using an online questionnaire. Conclusion: By providing a comprehensive picture of nutritional aspects of families living at risk of poverty, MEGA_kids will guide officials to target and prioritize public health nutrition measures, inform policy makers to implement and improve healthy policies and, finally, identify research gaps to be prioritized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Simmet
- Department of Nutritional Psychology, Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Janine Ehret
- Department of Nutritional Psychology, Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Romy Schleicher
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Teut
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gerrit Hummel
- Department of Nutritional Psychology, Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Andreas Bschaden
- Department of Nutritional Psychology, Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Nanette Stroebele-Benschop
- Department of Nutritional Psychology, Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
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Gianfredi V, Nucci D, Lattanzio R, Piccinelli S, Cicconi G, Farfan SJS, Berti A, D'Amico M, Sabatelli N, Guzzardi F, Bronzini L, Pregliasco FE, Maggi S, Veronese N, Soysal P. Food insecurity and body mass index among older people: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2024; 128:105606. [PMID: 39217766 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2024.105606] [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: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Food insecurity, characterized by inadequate access to sufficient and nutritious food, poses a significant challenge to the health and well-being of older adults. This systematic review and meta-analysis was aimed to examine the association between food insecurity and body mass index (BMI) in older people, i.e., aging 60 and above. PRISMA 2020 guidelines were followed. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO in advance (ID CRD 42024543271). PubMed/MEDLINE, and Scopus were searched up to February 2024. Out of 5834 retrieved article, a total of 13 studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing diverse geographic regions and socioeconomic contexts. The meta-analysis revealed a significant association between food insecurity and higher BMI (both obesity and overweight) in older adults. Pooled estimates indicated that food-insecure older individuals were more likely to be overweight or obese (combined) compared to their food-secure counterparts [OR= 1.29 (95% CI= 1.28-1.30), p<0.001; I2= 94.92]. Results were also confirmed for overweight or obesity alone. Notably, food insecurity was linked to increased consumption of energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods, contributing to higher BMI. These findings underscore the complex relationship between food insecurity and BMI among older adults, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address food access and nutritional quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Gianfredi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniele Nucci
- Struttura Semplice Dipartimentale Igiene Alimenti e Nutrizione, Dipartimento di Igiene e Prevenzione Sanitaria, Agenzia di Tutela della Salute (ATS) Brescia, Via Duca degli Abruzzi, 15, 25124 Brescia, Italy
| | - Roberta Lattanzio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Piccinelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cicconi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Berti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Marilena D'Amico
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Noemi Sabatelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Guzzardi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Bronzini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Stefania Maggi
- National Research Council (CNR), Aging Section, Padova, Italy
| | - Nicola Veronese
- Geriatric Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Pinar Soysal
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Blaychfeld-Magnazi M, Mor Z, Sartena G, Goldsmith RA, Ophir E, Endevelt R. Food insecurity amongst asylum seekers and people without status in Israel. Isr J Health Policy Res 2024; 13:37. [PMID: 39135127 PMCID: PMC11318255 DOI: 10.1186/s13584-024-00622-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic caused massive disruptions globally, with food insecurity a primary concern amongst vulnerable communities. As one of the most marginalized and vulnerable groups in Israeli society asylum seekers and undocumented populations were amongst the first to be affected by the pandemic and the economic crisis that followed. The objective of the study was to evaluate the severity and causes of food insecurity among asylum seekers and other undocumented communities because of COVID-19. METHODS A multi method approach was used. The quantitative component included an online questionnaire regarding access to food, aid and choices, and the 6 item Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM) The qualitative component included 4 focus groups and thematic analysis. The study was conducted in November 2020, by the Ministry of Health's Nutrition Division and the Tel Aviv Municipality's foreign community assistance and information center (Mesila). The convenience sample was drawn from the low-income neighborhood population of South Tel Aviv. Logistic regression, multivariate analysis and content analysis, were performed. RESULTS Four hundred eighty-five people completed the quantitative survey, with average age 33.2 ± 5.4 years and 349 (72.0%) experienced food insecurity. In the multivariate analysis, being older (p = 0.04, Odds Ratio OR 1.1, Confidence Interval CI 1.05-1.15) and being single (unmarried) (p = 0.03, OR 2.1, CI 1.2, 3.5) predicted food insecurity. Qualitative findings identified three main themes: children preferring Israeli/ Western foods to traditional foods; financial stresses were compounded; a preference for receiving assistance with purchasing food (vouchers), rather than food handouts. CONCLUSION In conclusion, vulnerable populations (asylum seekers and other undocumented communities) were severely affected and are in danger of food insecurity. Culturally relevant and contextualized solutions are needed to address the acute hunger within the community. These include establishment of a cross-ministerial forum, a social grocery store, increased liaison with food rescue bodies, complete nutritional support for children in educational settings and increased guidance regarding food choices and budgeting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zohar Mor
- Department of Health, Tel Aviv, Ministry of Health, Tel Aviv, Israel
- School of Health Sciences, Ashkelon Academic College, Ashkelon, Israel
| | - Gaya Sartena
- Ministry of Health, Public Health Services, Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | - Einat Ophir
- Ministry of Health, Public Health Services, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ronit Endevelt
- Ministry of Health, Public Health Services, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Welfare and Health, School of Public Health, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Cuenca MH, Proaño GV, McDermid JM, Badreldin El Shikieri A, Steeves EA, Carrillo-Alvarez E, Fracassi P, Garelick DS, Brewer J, Kazimierczuk FK, Steiber A. Advancing Nutrition and Dietetics Research in Global Food and Nutrition Security: A Roundtable Meeting Report. J Acad Nutr Diet 2024; 124:102-122. [PMID: 37858674 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2023.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Food and nutrition security remains a relevant issue globally, impacting nutritional status and other health outcomes. This is further complicated by various environmental factors that impact stable access to, availability of, and utilization of nutritious foods. Nutrition and dietetics practitioners play an important role in the identification and treatment of food and nutrition security and are also well positioned to advance research that can support food and nutrition security solutions. To address this important issue, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' Council on Research convened a Global Food and Nutrition Security Research Task Force (Task Force). To leverage existing information and expertise in this area and identify the need for future evidence, the Task Force hosted a virtual roundtable with key internal and external stakeholders. This 2-day event included discussions on research gaps, potential entry points for nutrition and dietetics practitioners, and important equity considerations in the area of food and nutrition security research. The identified research gaps included the need for standardized terminology for consistent data collection, the need for validated screening and assessment tools that can be used across settings and also assess diet quality, additional translational and implementation science research, multi-sectoral and multi-pronged approaches, interdisciplinary collaboration with community partners, incorporation of research into policy development, and additional evidence on food systems approaches to target food and nutrition security. To more clearly identify the entry points for practitioners, five examples from various countries were included to identify food and nutrition security issues and how nutrition and dietetics practitioners can be involved in research to address food and nutrition security. The Task Force would like this information to inform a research agenda and be leveraged by the larger scientific community to drive future funding and research opportunities for food and nutrition professionals on this topic.
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Kötzsche M, Teuber R, Jordan I, Heil E, Torheim LE, Arroyo-Izaga M. Prevalence and predictors of food insecurity among university students - Results from the Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany. Prev Med Rep 2023; 36:102526. [PMID: 38116256 PMCID: PMC10728436 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of food insecurity (FI) among university students in Germany during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted a cross-sectional study (n = 626) between November and December 2021 at the Justus Liebig University in Giessen, Germany, using an online questionnaire. The analysis of FI was based on the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES) by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). We statistically validated our data using the Rasch model. Moreover, demographic, socio-economic and educational variables were collected using a questionnaire developed by the Food Insecurity among European University Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic (FINESCOP) consortium. Overall, 27.5 % of the university students are food insecure. The proportion of university students experiencing moderate or severe food insecurity (FImod+sev) is 10.4 % and the proportion experiencing severe food insecurity (FIsev) 0.9 %. Results from a logistic regression showed that students have a higher chance to be food insecure if they were not born in Europe and if their parents have a secondary or lower educational level. We further found an association between age and FI. Also receiving a student loan during the pandemic and getting food assistance increased the likelihood of being food insecure. Our results show that FI is prevalent among this particularly vulnerable population group. Thus, public health, as well as policy efforts may need to become more target group-specific in accordance with the identified circumstances and specific characteristics to avoid that university students suffer from FI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maike Kötzsche
- Justus Liebig University Giessen, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Nutritional Sciences and Environmental Management, Chair of Agricultural and Food Market Analysis, Senckenbergstraße 3, 35390 Giessen, Germany
| | - Ramona Teuber
- Justus Liebig University Giessen, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Nutritional Sciences and Environmental Management, Chair of Agricultural and Food Market Analysis, Senckenbergstraße 3, 35390 Giessen, Germany
- Justus Liebig University Giessen, Centre for Sustainable Food Systems, Senckenbergstr. 3, 35390 Giessen, Germany
| | - Irmgard Jordan
- Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, Food Environment and Consumer Behaviour, Africa Hub, P.O. Box 823-00621, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Eleonore Heil
- Justus Liebig University Giessen, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Nutritional Sciences and Environmental Management, Working group of Nutrition Ecology, Senckenbergstraße 3, 35390 Giessen, Germany
| | - Liv E. Torheim
- Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet), Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Faculty of Health Sciences, 0130 Oslo, Norway
| | - Marta Arroyo-Izaga
- University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Department of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, BIOMICs Research Group, Microfluidics & BIOMICs Cluster, Bioaraba, BA04.03, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
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Sadat SAA, Pakravan-Charvadeh MR, Gholamrezai S, Rahimian M, Lane G, Béland D, Koc M, Clark N, Omidvar N, Sadeghi R, Vatanparast H. Factors associated with Afghan household food security pre- and post-Taliban regime. J Public Health Policy 2023; 44:551-565. [PMID: 37710011 DOI: 10.1057/s41271-023-00439-0] [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] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
To determine multifaceted determinants of household vulnerability to food insecurity in Afghanistan before and after the Taliban takeover, we randomly selected 555 households from 13 provinces, conducted in-person surveys, and applied the Household Food Insecurity Assess Scale (HFIAS) and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). We collected data from January to April 2022. We observed an increase in both prevalence and severity of food insecurity among Afghan households after the Taliban takeover. Approximately, 98% and 70% of interviewed households were food insecure after and before the Taliban takeover, respectively. Similarly, households were more likely to be severely food insecure (81%) than before (40%). Our results showed that policy and political conditions contributed substantially to the food insecurity of Afghan households after the Taliban takeover. We recommend that the Taliban forces facilitate the presence of humanitarian organizations and NGOs to improve low-income households' food security, especially for women and children. We also recommend that international organizations enhance their attempts to negotiate with the Taliban to ensure freedom for women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyyed Amin Allah Sadat
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Lorestan University, Falakol' Aflak St, PO Box 465, Khorramabad, Lorestan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Pakravan-Charvadeh
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Lorestan University, Falakol' Aflak St, PO Box 465, Khorramabad, Lorestan, Iran.
| | - Saeed Gholamrezai
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Lorestan University, Falakol' Aflak St, PO Box 465, Khorramabad, Lorestan, Iran
| | - Mehdi Rahimian
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Lorestan University, Falakol' Aflak St, PO Box 465, Khorramabad, Lorestan, Iran
| | - Ginny Lane
- College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Margaret Ritchie School of Family and Consumer Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
| | - Daniel Béland
- Department of Political Science, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mustafa Koc
- Department of Sociology, Centre for Studies in Food Security, Toronto Metropolitan University (Formerly Known As Ryerson University), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nancy Clark
- Faculty of Human and Social Development, School of Nursing, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Nasrin Omidvar
- Department of Community Nutrition, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute (NNFTRI), Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rasoul Sadeghi
- Faculty of Social Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hassan Vatanparast
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 107 Wiggins Rd, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada.
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Al-kassab-Córdova A, Villarreal-Zegarra D, Bendezu-Quispe G, Robles-Valcárcel P, Herrera-Añazco P, Benites-Zapata VA. Socio-demographic, migratory and health-related determinants of food insecurity among Venezuelan migrants in Peru. Public Health Nutr 2023; 26:2982-2994. [PMID: 37944992 PMCID: PMC10755391 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980023002513] [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: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the factors associated with food insecurity (FI) among Venezuelan migrants residing in Peru. Secondarily, to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES). DESIGN A cross-sectional study based on secondary data analysis of the 2022 Venezuelan Population Residing in Peru Survey (ENPOVE-2022, from the Spanish acronym) was conducted. FI was measured with the FIES, whose properties were tested using the Rasch model. Multinomial logistic regression was performed to estimate relative prevalence ratios with their corresponding 95 % confidence intervals. SETTING This survey was conducted in February and March 2022 in the eight cities most populated by Venezuelan migrants and refugees in Peru. PARTICIPANTS Venezuelan migrants and refugees over the age of 18 years living in Peru. RESULTS A total of 7727 participants were included. Rasch reliability was adequate (0·73). The prevalence of mild, moderate and severe FI was 36·71 %, 31·14 % and 10·48 %, respectively. Being aged 25-34 and 35-44 years, unemployed, uninsured, having no formal education or secondary, illegal status, living in a dwelling with 2-4 and more than 4 people, presenting one or more than one chronic disease, residing in Peru for 0-6 months and perceived discrimination were associated with a higher probability of moderate FI. Furthermore, having secondary education, being unemployed, uninsured, never married, illegal, residing in Tumbes, presenting one or more than one chronic disease and perceived discrimination were significantly associated with severe FI. CONCLUSION Four out of ten Venezuelan migrants residing in Peru presented moderate to severe FI. The FIES showed adequate psychometric properties. Differences in the socio-demographic, health and migratory factors associated with FI levels were found. Inter-sectoral and multi-sectoral interventions are needed and should be focused on addressing the determinants of FI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Guido Bendezu-Quispe
- Escuela Profesional de Medicina Humana, Universidad Privada San Juan Bautista, Filial de Ica, Ica, Peru
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Carrillo-Álvarez E. Perspective: Food and Nutrition Insecurity in Europe: Challenges and Opportunities for Dietitians. Adv Nutr 2023; 14:995-1004. [PMID: 37543145 PMCID: PMC10509433 DOI: 10.1016/j.advnut.2023.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the interest in food and nutrition insecurity in high-income countries has skyrocketed. However, its recognition in Europe is still developing. This perspective summarizes the evidence on food and nutrition insecurity across Europe in terms of prevalence, consequences, and current mitigation strategies, with the aim of outlining the challenges and opportunities for dietitians. Prevalence in the general population ranges between 5% and 20%, with higher rates identified in women, children, older adults, single-parent households, those with low educational attainment, and on low or unstable income and/or employment. In users of food aid, the prevalence of food insecurity is above 70%. Responses to food and nutrition insecurity include welfare policies and food assistance programs at regional and national levels. However, most current strategies are not successful in tackling the structural drivers of food and nutrition insecurity, nor do they guarantee diet quality. Despite limited involvement to-date, dietitians can play an important role in addressing food and nutrition insecurity across Europe. This narrative identifies 4 areas: 1) create awareness of the existence and severity of food and nutrition insecurity, 2) advocate for comprehensive, robust data on the determinants and prevalence, 3) partner with diverse stakeholders, social assistance providers, local authorities, and nongovernmental organizations in a comprehensive, intersectoral, and integrated manner, 4) participate in the development of political instruments and interventions that ensure equitable access to high-quality safe food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Carrillo-Álvarez
- Public Health Specialist Network (ESDN PH), European Federation of Association of Dietetics (EFAD), Europe; Global Research on Wellbeing (GRoW) research group, Blanquerna School of Health Sciences, Universitat Ramon Lull, Barcelona, Spain.
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Gajda R, Jeżewska-Zychowicz M. Relationship between Food Insecurity and Nutritional Risk among Older Adults in Poland-A Preliminary Study. Nutrients 2023; 15:3232. [PMID: 37513650 PMCID: PMC10385899 DOI: 10.3390/nu15143232] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging populations may be associated with increased nutritional risk, malnutrition, and food insecurity. This study aims to examine the relationship between food insecurity and nutritional risk, taking into account selected characteristics of the study group, and factors describing nutritional risk. It was conducted between May and July 2021, among 417 people aged 60 and older, in two regions of Poland. Questions from the SCREEN-14 questionnaire were used to assess nutritional risk. Selected questions from the HFSS questionnaire (U.S. Household Food Security Survey Module) concerning the elderly were used to assess food insecurity. A K-means cluster analysis was used to separate homogeneous clusters into food security indicators and nutritional risk factors. The Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis test were used to compare mean values between groups, and the Chi-square test was used to verify the differences. Two clusters were distinguished: I-"low food security and high nutritional risk" and II-"high food security and low nutritional risk". Cluster I included people aged 60-65, and over 75, living in urban areas, living alone or with family, with unfavorable economic situations and family relationships. Cluster II was composed of people aged 71-75, who were rural residents, living with a partner, with favorable economic situations and family relations. The vast majority of nutritional risk factors were found in Cluster I and among those at high nutritional risk. The largest number of people were affected by such nutritional risk factors such as difficulty in chewing or biting, loss in appetite, skipping meals, and perceiving one's weight as abnormal. Moreover, the group of people most significantly affected by high nutritional risk were in unfavorable economic situations, had poor family relationships, lived alone or with family, rated their health as worse than their peers, were overweight and obese, had metabolic disease, or impeding mobility. The results obtained can be applied to the planning of social and health policies for the elderly in Poland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Gajda
- Department of Human Nutrition, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Chełmońskiego 37, 51-630 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marzena Jeżewska-Zychowicz
- Department of Food Market and Consumer Research, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW-WULS), Nowoursynowska 159C, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
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Oldroyd L, Eskandari F, Pratt C, Lake AA. The nutritional quality of food parcels provided by food banks and the effectiveness of food banks at reducing food insecurity in developed countries: a mixed-method systematic review. J Hum Nutr Diet 2022; 35:1202-1229. [PMID: 35112742 PMCID: PMC9790279 DOI: 10.1111/jhn.12994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research indicates that food parcels provided by food banks are nutritionally poor. Food insecurity and the use of food banks are both rising, with detrimental effects on the dietary intake and health of users. This mixed-method systematic review aims to investigate the current nutritional adequacy of pre-packaged food parcels and whether using food banks reduces the food insecurity and improves the dietary intake of their users. METHODS A mixed-method systematic literature review, restricted to articles published from 2015, was conducted using eight electronic databases, four grey literature databases and eight relevant websites. Quantitative findings, investigating the nutritional quality of food parcels and/or their impact on dietary intake or food insecurity, were presented narratively. Qualitative findings reporting the views of food bank users regarding food from food banks underwent thematic synthesis. These independent syntheses were integrated using configurative analysis and presented narratively. RESULTS Of 2189 articles, 11 quantitative and 10 qualitative were included. Food parcels were inconsistent at meeting nutritional requirements and often failed to meet individual needs, including cultural and health preferences. Using food banks improved food security and dietary quality of users, allowing otherwise unachievable access to food. However, food insecurity remained, and is explained by limited food variety, quality and choice. The mixed-method findings support interventions to ensure consistent, adequate nutrition at food banks, including catering for individual needs. CONCLUSIONS Food banks are a lifeline for those severely food insecure. However when used alone, food banks struggle to eliminate the heightened food insecurity of their users. Efforts to improve the nutritional quality of food parcels could improve the experiences and diet-related outcomes of those requiring food banks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Oldroyd
- Centre for Public Health Research, School of Health & Life SciencesTeesside UniversityMiddlesbroughUK
| | - Fatemeh Eskandari
- Centre for Public Health Research, School of Health & Life SciencesTeesside UniversityMiddlesbroughUK,Fuse, The Centre for Translational Research in Public HealthNewcastleUK
| | - Charlotte Pratt
- Centre for Public Health Research, School of Health & Life SciencesTeesside UniversityMiddlesbroughUK
| | - Amelia A. Lake
- Centre for Public Health Research, School of Health & Life SciencesTeesside UniversityMiddlesbroughUK,Fuse, The Centre for Translational Research in Public HealthNewcastleUK
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11
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Rizvi A, Enns A, Gergyek L, Kristjansson E. More food for thought: a follow-up qualitative study on experiences of food bank access and food insecurity in Ottawa, Canada. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:586. [PMID: 35337301 PMCID: PMC8953391 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13015-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the widespread proliferation of food banks in high-income countries over the past several decades, there is a paucity of data regarding the long-term experiences of the people who rely on food banks. We were unable to find any other studies with follow-up interviews later than 6 months after baseline. OBJECTIVE This study examined the changes in the lived experiences of people who accessed food banks over a period of 18 months. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 people who accessed food banks in Ottawa, Canada and who had participated in a 6-month study that ended one full year before this follow-up study was done. Transcripts of the interviews were analyzed through a general inductive approach involving repeated readings and coding of relevant segments of text with NVivo software according to themes that emerged iteratively. Code reports were then used to discuss and reach consensus on a final set of themes. RESULTS Three main themes emerged: (1) chronic physical and mental health issues intersecting with food bank access; (2) psychosocial impact of relying on food banks; and (3) living on a low income and dealing with poverty. Chronic physical and mental health conditions were prevalent among the participants. As well, 10 of the 11 participants in this 18-month follow-up continued to rely on food banks as a regular resource - not as an emergency relief measure - to supplement their nutritional needs. While most of the participants reported that food banks helped them in some way, many shortcomings were also noted regarding food amounts, quality and choice. Overall, there was little change reported since the 6-month follow-up. CONCLUSIONS The shortcomings reported by participants can mostly be attributed to the dependence of food banks on charitable donations; thus, despite the commendable work of food bank staff and volunteers, participants described the food assistance as inadequate. Additionally, long-term food bank usage was a common denominator in the lived experiences of all our participants; therefore, our findings reinforce the need for assistance programs that target long-term food insecurity and its underlying causes, to replace or supplement charity-based food bank programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Rizvi
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, 136 Jean-Jacques-Lussier Pvt, Room VNR5015, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada.
| | - Aganeta Enns
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, 136 Jean-Jacques-Lussier Pvt, Room VNR5015, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Lucas Gergyek
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, 136 Jean-Jacques-Lussier Pvt, Room VNR5015, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Kristjansson
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, 136 Jean-Jacques-Lussier Pvt, Room VNR5015, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
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12
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“Too big to fail”: the resilience and entrenchment of food aid through food banks in the Netherlands during the COVID-19 pandemic. Food Secur 2022; 14:781-789. [PMID: 35132341 PMCID: PMC8811007 DOI: 10.1007/s12571-022-01260-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This paper aims to better understand the resilience and further entrenchment of food aid through food banks in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the first months of the pandemic in the Netherlands, concerns quickly rose about the number of people falling into conditions of food insecurity. Adding insult to injury, food banks reported problems in their operations. The analysis shows that after some adaptations to initial problems, food banks were largely able to continue their service. This ability was partly based on organizational flexibility. However, in order to understand the resilience of food aid through food banks, it is imperative to understand food banks as part of a system of food aid that extends beyond the organizational boundaries. This system includes a range of other actors and resources, including donors, public support and governmental backing that contributed to the resilience of the food aid system. While this embeddedness in a system as well as broad public support were essential for the resilience of food aid through food banks, both factors also indicate the further entrenchment of food banks in the understanding and practices of ensuring food security for people in poverty. Ultimately, when the root causes of a need for food aid are not addressed, a resilient system of food aid through food banks can eventually prove detrimental to societal resilience, specifically the ability to ensure dignified access to adequate food.
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13
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Silva MRG, Machado-Rodrigues AM, Rodrigues D, Nogueira H, Rosado-Marques V, Gama A, Padez C. Household Food Security and Associated Factors among Portuguese Children. Ecol Food Nutr 2021; 61:407-421. [PMID: 34936530 DOI: 10.1080/03670244.2021.2018311] [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: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the household food insecurity (HFI) among Portuguese children following the last world financial crisis. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 4737 Portuguese children (3-11 yrs). Socio-demographics, food insecurity, and household geographic location were assessed via questionnaire. Nutritional status was measured. Following the economic crisis, 14.2% of school children and 12.0% of preschool children experienced HFI. Preschool children having parents with low and medium parental education (paternal: OR = 4.4; 95% CI 2.7-7.1 and OR = 2.4; 95% CI 1.5-3.6; maternal: OR = 2.2; 95% CI 1.4-3.5 and OR = 1.6; 95% CI 1.1-2.3), living in the south (OR = 1.4; 95% CI 1.0-2.0) and being overweight/obese (OR = 1.1; 95% CI 0.7-1.3) were more likely to experience HFI than food secure household peers. Higher OR of belonging to a food insecure household were observed in school-aged children with low and medium parental education (paternal: OR = 2.9; 95% CI 1.9-4.6 and OR = 1.7; 95% CI 1.1-2.5; maternal: OR = 2.5; 95% CI 1.6-3.9 and OR = 2.3; 95% CI 1.6-3.3), living in Coimbra (OR = 1.7; 95% CI 1.1-2.6) and being overweight/obese (OR = 1.3; 95% CI 0.8-1.5) compared to food secure household peers. Data are instructive and support the need to increase awareness of HFI, reduce its incidence in overweight/obese children from low socio-economic status families and specific geographic areas, and increase food availability based on local ecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Raquel G Silva
- CIAS - Research Centre for Anthropology and Health - Human Biology, Health and Society, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, Porto, Portugal.,CHRC - Comprehensive Health Research Centre-Group of Sleep, Chronobiology and Sleep Disorders-Nova Medical School, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Aristides M Machado-Rodrigues
- CIAS - Research Centre for Anthropology and Health - Human Biology, Health and Society, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,High School of Education, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, Viseu, Portugal
| | - Daniela Rodrigues
- CIAS - Research Centre for Anthropology and Health - Human Biology, Health and Society, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Portugal, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Helena Nogueira
- CIAS - Research Centre for Anthropology and Health - Human Biology, Health and Society, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Vítor Rosado-Marques
- CIAS - Research Centre for Anthropology and Health - Human Biology, Health and Society, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Human Kinetics, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Augusta Gama
- CIAS - Research Centre for Anthropology and Health - Human Biology, Health and Society, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cristina Padez
- CIAS - Research Centre for Anthropology and Health - Human Biology, Health and Society, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Portugal, Coimbra, Portugal
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14
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Sponsoring gesunder Lebensmittel ändert Einkaufsverhalten. INFO DIABETOLOGIE 2021. [PMCID: PMC8530544 DOI: 10.1007/s15034-021-3749-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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15
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Bigand TL, Dietz J, Gubitz HN, Wilson M. Chronic pain and depressive symptoms are related to food insecurity among urban food bank users. J Public Health (Oxf) 2021; 43:573-580. [PMID: 32567657 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdaa062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Food bank users suffer high food insecurity. Food insecurity increases risk for chronic health conditions. However, chronic pain and its relation to food insecurity among food bank users is unknown. Knowledge about populations with chronic pain is important to direct appropriate public health nutritional strategies. METHODS Participants completed a survey including sleep, pain, depressive symptoms and food insecurity measures. Descriptive statistics characterized the burden of chronic pain among the sample, and a series of chi-square and t-tests assessed for demographic differences between food bank users who reported pain compared to those who did not. Logistic regression tested for variables predicting food insecurity. RESULTS Within the sample (N = 207), 53% reported a chronic pain diagnosis. Adults with pain were more likely to receive food stamps and to have a mental health condition than those without pain. Regression analyses revealed that depressive symptoms and chronic pain significantly predicted food insecurity when controlling for age and gender. CONCLUSIONS Exploring the link between depression, pain and nutritional resources may enhance understanding of causal relationships driving food insecurity. Public health officials should address nutritional needs of adults including those with chronic pain who use food bank services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa L Bigand
- Department of Nursing, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA.,Professional Nursing Development Office, Professional Nursing Development Office, Providence Health Care, Spokane, WA 99204, USA
| | - Jeremy Dietz
- Department of Public Health and Health Economics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine London, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Hannah N Gubitz
- Department of Nursing, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA
| | - Marian Wilson
- Department of Nursing, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA
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16
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Li W, Chien F, Ngo QT, Nguyen TD, Iqbal S, Bilal AR. Vertical financial disparity, energy prices and emission reduction: Empirical insights from Pakistan. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 294:112946. [PMID: 34153632 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.112946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The economic and environmental aspects of energy production have become important due to the increasing complexity energy sector and envoirnmental pollution, warranting to test the connection between financial imbalances, energy prices and carbon emission. The study aims to test the impact of vertical fiscal imbalances (VFI) on energy prices and carbon emission trends by considering the dual-perspectives of environmental regulation and industrial structure. The empirical outcomes indicated that vertical fiscal imbalances limited the environmental quality of Pakistan. Furthermore, VFI also caused environmental degradation by affecting industrial structure. VFI inhibits the intensity of environmental regulation, promotes the upgrade of industrial structures, both of which cause additional carbon emissions. The study suggest to energy ministries and energy regulation offices to revisit the machinism of energy prices determination and revised machanisim should provide a user-friendly assessment to understand the actual costs associated with the rising concern of environmental pollution. By this, envoirnmental protection maximization and optimal energy conservation is expacted to increase. Based on empirical findings, the study extends the suggestion that vertical fiscal imbalances should be considered an active indicator by the key policy makers and other stakeholders for energy prices determination and environmental quality upgradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqing Li
- School of International Economics and Tourism Management, Zhejiang International Studies University, Hangzhou, 310023, China.
| | - Fengsheng Chien
- School of Finance and Accounting, Fuzhou University of International Studies and Trade, Fujian, China; Faculty of Business, City University of Macau, Macau, China.
| | - Quang-Thanh Ngo
- School of Government, University of Economics, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam.
| | - Tien-Dung Nguyen
- Board of Rectors, University of Economics and Law (UEL), Viet Nam; Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCM), Viet Nam.
| | - Sajid Iqbal
- KUBEAC, University of Management & Technology, Sialkot Campus, Pakistan.
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17
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Simmet A, Stroebele-Benschop N. Food Bank Operations during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Germany. JOURNAL OF HUNGER & ENVIRONMENTAL NUTRITION 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/19320248.2021.1943590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anja Simmet
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, Department of Nutritional Psychology, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Nanette Stroebele-Benschop
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, Department of Nutritional Psychology, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
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18
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Hanbazaza MA, Mumena WA. Food Security Status, Coping Strategies, and Health of Women's Welfare Society Beneficiaries in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: A Facility-Based Study. Ecol Food Nutr 2021; 61:43-55. [PMID: 33993785 DOI: 10.1080/03670244.2021.1926244] [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: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
This study assessed the food security status of low-income women in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in addition to their coping strategies, health, and well-being. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 113 women receiving food assistance from a women's welfare society. Data were collected using in-person structured interviews. Overall, 50% of the women were food-insecure. Compared with food-secure women, food-insecure women were more likely to utilize many coping strategies. The mean score of coping strategies was significantly greater among food-insecure women, than that of food-secure women (21.0 ± 5.35 and 10.2 ± 5.78, respectively; p < .001). Food-insecure women were also more likely to report poor mental and overall health compared to food-secure women (p = .008 and p < .001, respectively). However, there was no significant difference in life satisfaction between both food security groups (p = .260). Low-income women may use several strategies to cope with food insecurity, which may affect mental and overall health. Further research is needed on the effect of food insecurity on health and well-being of low-income groups in Saudi Arabia. Qualitative data are also needed to better understand the reasons of food insecurity and preventing poor health outcomes among disadvantaged populations in Saudi Arabia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahitab A Hanbazaza
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Sciences and Design, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Walaa A Mumena
- Clinical Nutrition Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Madinah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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19
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Cañari-Casaño JL, Cochachin-Henostroza O, Elorreaga OA, Dolores-Maldonado G, Aquino-Ramírez A, Huaman-Gil S, Giribaldi-Sierralta JP, Aparco JP, Antiporta DA, Penny ME. Social predictors of food insecurity during the stay-at-home order due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Peru. Results from a cross-sectional web-based survey. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2021:2021.02.06.21251221. [PMID: 33564796 PMCID: PMC7872391 DOI: 10.1101/2021.02.06.21251221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stay-at-home orders and social distancing have been implemented as the primary tools to reduce the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, this approach has indirectly lead to the unemployment of 2·3 million Peruvians, in Lima, Perú alone. As a result, the risk of food insecurity may have increased, especially in low-income families who rely on a daily wage. This study estimates the prevalence of moderate or severe food insecurity (MSFI) and identifies the associated factors that explain this outcome during the stay-at-home order. METHODS A cross-sectional web-based survey, with non-probabilistic sampling, was conducted between May 18 and June 30, 2020, during the stay-at-home order in Peru. We used social media advertisements on Facebook to reach 18-59-year-olds living in Peru. MSFI was assessed using the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES). Rasch model methodology requirements were considered, and factors associated with MSFI were selected using stepwise forward selection. A Poisson generalized linear model (Poisson GLM), with log link function, was employed to estimate adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR). FINDINGS This analysis is based on 1846 replies. The prevalence of MSFI was 23·2%, and FIES proved to be an acceptable instrument with reliability 0·72 and infit 0·8-1·3. People more likely to experience MSFI were those with low income (less than 255 US$/month) in the pre-pandemic period (aPR 3·77; 95%CI, 1·98-7·16), those whose income was significantly reduced during the pandemic period (aPR 2·27; 95%CI, 1·55-3·31), and those whose savings ran out in less than 21 days (aPR 1·86; 95%CI, 1·43-2·42). Likewise, heads of households (aPR 1·20; 95%CI, 1·00-1·44) and those with probable SARS-CoV2 cases as relatives (aPR 1·29; 95%CI, 1·05-1·58) were at an increased risk of MSFI. Additionally, those who perceived losing weight during the pandemic (aPR 1·21; 95%CI, 1·01-1·45), and increases in processed foods prices (aPR 1·31; 95%CI, 1·08-1·59), and eating less minimally processed food (aPR 1·82; 95%CI, 1·48-2·24) were more likely to experience MSFI. INTERPRETATION People most at risk of MSFI were those in a critical economic situation before and during the pandemic. Social protection policies should be reinforced to prevent or mitigate these adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge L Cañari-Casaño
- Clima, Latin American Center of Excellence for Climate Change and Health, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia
- Emerge, Emerging Diseases and Climate Change Research Unit, School of Public Health and Administration, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia
| | | | - Oliver A Elorreaga
- Clima, Latin American Center of Excellence for Climate Change and Health, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia
- Emerge, Emerging Diseases and Climate Change Research Unit, School of Public Health and Administration, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia
- GMINIS Research Group, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú
| | - Gandy Dolores-Maldonado
- Escuela Profesional de Nutrición, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Perú
| | | | - Sindy Huaman-Gil
- Escuela Profesional de Nutrición, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Perú
- Sociedad Científica de Estudiantes de Nutrición, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Perú
| | - Juan P Giribaldi-Sierralta
- Escuela Profesional de Nutrición, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Perú
- Sociedad Científica de Estudiantes de Nutrición, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Perú
| | - Juan Pablo Aparco
- Centro Nacional de Alimentación y Nutrición, Instituto Nacional de Salud, Lima, Perú
- Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Carrera de Nutrición y Dietética, Lima, Perú
| | - Daniel A Antiporta
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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20
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Dudek H, Myszkowska-Ryciak J. The Prevalence and Socio-Demographic Correlates of Food Insecurity in Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E6221. [PMID: 32867149 PMCID: PMC7504274 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17176221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
While food insecurity (FI) has been extensively studied in many countries, there have been few empirical contributions in Poland to date. The main objective of our research was to identify the socio-demographic factors affecting the risk of FI in Poland within 2014-2019. Moreover, we aimed to examine the effects of the family-oriented social program "Family 500+" by comparing the situation in various types of households with children a few years before and after the program was launched. The analysis was based on the set of eight-item FI indicators adopted by the Food and Agriculture Organization using the Gallup World Poll nationally representative survey data. Based on our results the most vulnerable groups in the context of FI were identified. We confirmed the importance of education, gender, age, marital status, household composition, status of employment and income in preventing FI. The effectiveness of the support program in reducing FI was demonstrated as households with at least three children experienced significant improvement in the FI status during the studied years. These findings should be especially important in the context of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on FI. As FI can affect the quality and quantity of food choices it is associated with a poorer health status, which increases the risk of infection, including COVID-19, and worsens recovery prognosis. Planning an efficient response to the pandemic requires a comprehension of the increased risk of exposure experienced by people, especially those who are food insecure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Dudek
- Department of Econometrics and Statistics, Institute of Economics and Finance, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS), 02-776 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Joanna Myszkowska-Ryciak
- Department of Dietetics, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS), 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
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21
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Beacom E, Furey S, Hollywood L, Humphreys P. Investigating food insecurity measurement globally to inform practice locally: a rapid evidence review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2020; 61:3319-3339. [PMID: 32757973 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2020.1798347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this review was to examine the methods used to measure food insecurity (FI) globally, to inform considerations relating to adopting a novel, or reviewing an existing, FI measurement approach in developed countries. Considerations for measurement are examined with particular applicability to the United Kingdom (UK) which has recently announced adoption of the US Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM) as an indicator to facilitate annual FI monitoring. This study uses a Rapid Evidence Assessment (REA) methodological approach to systematically review the literature on FI measurement and considers: geographical jurisdiction, methodological approach, sampling strategy, FI indicator(s) used, and implications for measurement. Results found that the majority of papers reviewed emanate from North America with the US Household Food Security Scale Module (HFSSM) and its various adapted forms being the most commonly reported indicator. FI is becoming a key concern within developed countries with a range of indicators being used to report on the severity of the issue. This paper provides a contribution to knowledge by: (i) identifying various approaches to FI measurement and commonalities of existing measurement approaches; (ii) providing a summation of the methodologies and findings of studies relating to FI measurement, and associated implications for measurement, (iii) providing a justification evidenced by the literature for the adoption of the HFSSM in the UK; and (iv) assessing the methodological usefulness of a REA review. Understanding the components of robust FI indicators and their effectiveness can help inform existing and novel measurement approaches to ensure that data collected on FI are meaningful and thereby useful to inform future policy work in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Beacom
- Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Ulster Business School, University of Ulster, Coleraine, UK
| | - Sinéad Furey
- Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Ulster Business School, University of Ulster, Coleraine, UK
| | - Lynsey Hollywood
- Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Ulster Business School, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
| | - Paul Humphreys
- Ulster Business School, University of Ulster, Jordanstown, UK
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22
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Simmet A, Teut M, Schleicher R, Bschaden A, Stroebele-Benschop N. Impact of a smoking cessation program on smoking prevalence and food security among food pantry users - a study protocol for a pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1124. [PMID: 32680475 PMCID: PMC7366453 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09232-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among food pantry users there is a high prevalence of both smoking and food insecurity, which may be related to one another. This study aims to evaluate the impact of a smoking cessation program carried out in food pantries on the smoking status and the food security status of food pantry users. METHODS / DESIGN Before starting the cluster randomised controlled trial, stakeholders will be engaged to adapt a behavioural group counselling program for smoking cessation to the needs of the food pantry users in a pre study. Food pantry users and workers as well as other experts, such as smoking cessation trainers, social workers, and psychologists, will be involved, using the world café technique and telephone interviews and a qualitative thematic analysis for data analysis to design the concept of the intervention program will be applied. In the second phase, the impact of the intervention on the smoking status and on food insecurity will be investigated by a cluster randomised controlled trial. A total of 416 food pantry users across 32 clusters (food pantries) in Berlin, Germany, should be recruited and randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the waiting list control group. The intervention will consist of a behavioural group counselling program for smoking cessation, specially tailored for food pantry users, as well as optional nicotine replacement therapy and the implementation of environmental smoking reduction measures in the food pantries. The primary outcomes 6 months after the treatment will be self-reported continuous smoking abstinence, validated by exhaled carbon monoxide (< 10 ppm of carbon monoxide), and increased food security level (the percentage of participants with an improved food security level). DISCUSSION This study will be the first long-term investigation into the effect of a smoking cessation program on smoking status and food insecurity. The results of this study will inform the implementation of smoking cessation programs in food pantries throughout Germany. TRIAL REGISTRATION Prospectively registered DRKS00020037 . Registered 29 April 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Simmet
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, Department of Nutritional Psychology, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstr. 12, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Michael Teut
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Luisenstraße 57, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Romy Schleicher
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Luisenstraße 57, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Bschaden
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, Department of Nutritional Psychology, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstr. 12, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Nanette Stroebele-Benschop
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, Department of Nutritional Psychology, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstr. 12, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany
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Improving the dietary quality of food parcels leads to improved dietary intake in Dutch food bank recipients-effects of a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Nutr 2020; 59:3491-3501. [PMID: 31996978 PMCID: PMC7669798 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-020-02182-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Since food banks have a strong influence on recipients’ diets, and seem to have difficulties in supporting healthy diets, improving the dietary quality of food parcels is important. The aim of our study was to assess whether improving the dietary quality of food parcels, using different strategies, can positively impact the actual dietary intake of Dutch food bank recipients. Methods This randomized cross-over controlled trial (Trial ID: ISRCTN40554133) with four intervention conditions [(1) Control (standard food parcel), (2) snacks– (standard food parcel with replacement of unhealthy snacks by staple foods), (3) FV+ (standard food parcel plus the recommended daily amount of fruit and vegetables), (4) snacks– + FV+ (standard food parcel with replacement of unhealthy snacks by staple foods plus the recommended daily amount of fruit and vegetables)] included 163 food bank recipients, from three food banks. At baseline, participants filled in a questionnaire. Dietary intake data were collected through 24-h recalls after both intervention conditions at 4 and 8 weeks follow-up. Primary outcome was daily fruit and vegetable intake, secondary outcomes were daily dietary intakes of food groups and nutrients. Results Multi-level linear regression analysis, using a two-level model, showed a higher mean daily fruit intake in participants in the FV+ condition than in participants in the Control condition (delta (δ): 74 [40.3;107.6] g). Both mean daily fruit and vegetable intake were higher in participants in the Snacks– + FV+ condition than in participants in the Control condition (fruit δ: 81.3 [56.5;106.2] g; vegetables δ: 46.2 [17.5;74.9] g), as well as in the Snacks– condition (fruit δ: 70.0 [38.8;101.1] g; vegetables δ: 62.2 [26.2; 98.2] g). Conclusions This study shows that improving the dietary quality of food parcels can positively impact the dietary intake of Dutch food bank recipients. With this information we can further develop effective strategies that can be easily applied by food banks, to improve dietary intake of food bank recipients.
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Creating healthy food pantries by using behavioural economics approaches. Public Health Nutr 2019; 22:2314-2316. [PMID: 31088584 DOI: 10.1017/s136898001900079x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Black JL, Seto D. Examining Patterns of Food Bank Use Over Twenty-Five Years in Vancouver, Canada. VOLUNTAS : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF VOLUNTARY AND NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS 2018; 31:853-869. [PMID: 33184533 PMCID: PMC7608732 DOI: 10.1007/s11266-018-0039-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Food banks have grown substantially in Canada since the 1980s but little is known about patterns or predictors of engagement including frequency or duration of service use. This study examined food bank program data from a large food bank organization in Vancouver, Canada, finding that between January 1992 and June 2017, at least 116,963 individuals made over 2 million food bank visits. The majority of members were engaged for a short time and came for relatively few visits, but 9% of members engaged in longer-term episodic or ongoing usage over several years, accounting for 65% of all visits. Results from cluster and regression analyses found that documented health and mobility challenges, larger household size, primary income source, and older age were predictors of higher frequency and duration of service usage. Findings add to growing critical examinations of the "emergency food system" highlighting the need for better understanding of the broader social policies influencing food bank use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. Black
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, Food, Nutrition and Health, University of British Columbia, 2205 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4 Canada
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Simmet A, Tinnemann P, Stroebele-Benschop N. The German Food Bank System and Its Users-A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15071485. [PMID: 30011832 PMCID: PMC6069247 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15071485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Although food banks are a well-known resource for low-income people struggling to meet their food needs, they have rarely been investigated on a large scale. This study aims to contribute to the actual debate about the potential and limitations of food banks to decrease the prevalence of food insecurity by providing a representative picture of the German food bank system and its users. Publicly accessible data were used to map residents, public welfare recipients, and food banks. In addition, a comprehensive survey was distributed to all 934 “Tafel” food banks. The results show that nearly all residents and welfare recipients have access to at least one food bank located in the districts in which they reside. Differences in the density of food banks exist between eastern and western Germany. Food banks provide mainly healthy fresh food, but they heavily rely on food donations from local retailers and on volunteer labor. Although changes in the number of user households by income seem to mirror trends in the number of welfare recipients, food bank users appear to represent only a fraction of the food-insecure population in Germany. Food banks might have the potential to improve users’ diet and food security, but they are not able to reach all food-insecure residents in Germany.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Simmet
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Peter Tinnemann
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology, and Health Economics at the Charité University Medical Center Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany.
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