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Dunn SB, Orchard TS, Andridge R, Rymut SM, Slesnick N, Hatsu IE. Mental health in society's margins: poor n-3 PUFA intake and psychological well-being of homeless youth. Br J Nutr 2024; 131:698-706. [PMID: 37737219 PMCID: PMC10803817 DOI: 10.1017/s000711452300212x] [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] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Dietary intake of long-chain n-3 PUFA (n-3 PUFA), particularly EPA and DHA, has been associated with psychological well-being, but little is known about the n-3 PUFA intake of homeless youth. The current study determined the association between depression and anxiety symptoms and n-3 PUFA intake and erythrocytes status in homeless youth. Totally, 114 homeless youth aged 18-24 years were recruited from a drop-in centre. n-3 PUFA dietary intake was assessed using an FFQ, and erythrocytes status was determined by gas chromatography (GC). Linear regression models were used to determine the relationship between psychological well-being and n-3 PUFA intake and status. The mean intakes of EPA and DHA for all participants (0·06 ± 0·13 g/d and 0·11 ± 0·24 g/d) were well below recommended levels, and mean erythrocytes EPA + DHA (n-3 index) in the cohort (2·42 %) was lower than reported for healthy, housed adolescents and those with clinical depression. There was no association of n-3 PUFA intake and erythrocytes status with either depression or anxiety. However, the relationships of depression with dietary EPA (P = 0·017) and DHA (P = 0·008), as well as erythrocytes DHA (P = 0·007) and n 3-index (P = 0·009), were significantly moderated by sex even after adjusting for confounders. Specifically, among females, as the intake and status of these n-3 PUFA decreased, depression increased. Our findings show poor dietary intake and low erythrocytes status of n-3 PUFA among homeless youth, which is associated with depressive symptoms among females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Beth Dunn
- Human Nutrition Program, Department of Human Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH43210, USA
| | - Tonya S. Orchard
- Human Nutrition Program, Department of Human Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH43210, USA
| | - Rebecca Andridge
- Division of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Susan M. Rymut
- Human Nutrition Program, Department of Human Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH43210, USA
| | - Natasha Slesnick
- Human Development and Family Science Program, Department of Human Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Irene E. Hatsu
- Human Nutrition Program, Department of Human Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH43210, USA
- OSU Extension, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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Kent K, Murray S, Visentin D, Mawer T, McGowan CJ, Williams AD, Hardcastle S, Bridgman H. High occurrence of food insecurity in young people attending a youth mental health service in regional Australia. Nutr Diet 2022; 79:364-373. [PMID: 35796179 PMCID: PMC9541261 DOI: 10.1111/1747-0080.12755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Aim Despite the relationship between food insecurity and poor mental health, food insecurity in young people attending mental health services in Australia remains understudied. This study aimed to determine the occurrence and predictors of food insecurity, and the relationship with dietary factors in young people attending a mental health service. Methods A cross‐sectional online survey was conducted in a sample of young people (15–25 years) who attended a mental health service in Launceston, Australia. The survey utilised a single‐item food insecurity screening tool and eight demographic, health and service use questions. Five questions determined self‐reported intake of fruit, vegetables, breakfast, water, sugar‐sweetened beverages and takeaway foods. Binary logistic regression determined predictors of food insecurity. Cross‐tabulations determined differences in dietary intake according to food security. Results Of survey respondents (n = 48; 68% female), 40% (n = 19) were food insecure. Respondents living out of home or in unstable accommodation were at significantly higher risk of food insecurity (odds ratio [OR]: 4.43; SE: 0.696; 95% CI: 1.13–17.34; p = 0.032) compared to those living with their parents. Those receiving government financial assistance (OR: 5.00; SE: 0.676; 95% CI: 1.33–18.81; p = 0.017) were also at significantly higher risk of food insecurity. Regardless of food security status, self‐reported intake of fruits, vegetables and breakfast were low, and respondents regularly consumed takeaway foods and sugar‐sweetened beverages. Conclusions There was a high occurrence of food insecurity and poor dietary intake in young people attending a youth mental health service demonstrating that initiatives to support access to healthy food in this group should be a priority, with potential benefits for mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Kent
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Sandra Murray
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Denis Visentin
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Tamieka Mawer
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Courtney J McGowan
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Andrew D Williams
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Sibella Hardcastle
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Heather Bridgman
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
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Risk and Protective Factors Associated with Adolescent Food Insecurity in Baltimore. J Urban Health 2021; 98:296-307. [PMID: 33094426 PMCID: PMC8079556 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-020-00488-w] [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] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
While emerging evidence is highlighting a growing problem of food insecurity among adolescents in disadvantaged neighborhoods, very little is known about the factors that may either protect or place adolescents at higher risk for food insecurity. The primary objective for this analysis, therefore, was to examine the associations between individual-, family-, and neighborhood-level risks and protective factors and food insecurity among 452 adolescents in Baltimore, Maryland. Results show that nearly 30% of our sample were food insecure (29.4%). Food insecure youth were more likely to be unstably housed (OR 5.17, 1.24-21.62), live in larger households (OR 1.14, 1.08-1.20), and perceive their neighborhoods unsafe (OR 2.37, 1.47-3.83). Protective factors included perceiving both male and female adult support (OR 0.55 and 0.47, respectively), having a higher sense of community belonging (OR 0.91, 0.32-0.95) and having positive perceptions of their neighborhood's physical environment (OR 0.93, 0.88-0.98). These results suggest that strengthening family and neighborhood relations and resources may promote the health of adolescents in disadvantaged urban areas.
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McKay FH, Bastian A, Lindberg R. Exploring The Response Of The Victorian Emergency And Community Food Sector To The COVID-19 Pandemic. JOURNAL OF HUNGER & ENVIRONMENTAL NUTRITION 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/19320248.2021.1900974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona H. McKay
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Amber Bastian
- The Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN) and School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca Lindberg
- The Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN) and School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
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6
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Butcher LM, O'Sullivan TA, Ryan MM, Lo J, Nyanjom J, Wilkins HC, Devine A. To dine in or not to dine in: A comparison of food selection and preparation behaviours in those with and without food security. Health Promot J Austr 2020; 32 Suppl 2:267-282. [PMID: 32991748 PMCID: PMC8597035 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Issue addressed Vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected by food insecurity, resulting in heightened risk of suboptimal dietary intake. Food insecure people appear to implement several coping strategies and dietary compromises to avoid hunger. Less explored in the literature is how these strategies impact consumption of food inside and outside of the home. Methods An online survey was completed by adults (n = 1292) residing in one of five Australian states. The questionnaire comprised of the six‐item US Household Food Security Survey Module, 12 socio‐demographic variables and 32 questions related to elements of food literacy. Results Food insecure respondents were more likely to frequent fast food vs (P = .002), takeaway (P < .001) and food courts (P < .001) than their food secure counterparts. Food secure respondents reported greater use of raw (P = .043) and fresh, pre‐prepared produce (P = .002) when cooking, whereas food insecure respondents were more likely to prepare food using only frozen, pre‐packaged products (P < .001). No significant differences were found between food security status and the enjoyment and social bonding derived from cooking. Conclusions Food insecure respondents appeared to be accessing a poorer quality of food through greater consumption of takeaway and fast food. These dietary compromises are most likely related to perceived financial, time or cooking facility constraints and to a lesser extent food literacy skills. So what? This study highlights some of the health and social inequities apparent within food insecure populations. Food insecure households should be supported to access healthy fresh food and in‐home cooking practices. While a multi strategy approach is required, healthy food environment policy, particularly in disadvantaged areas, should be considered to guarantee that all Australians have dignified access to nutritious food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy M Butcher
- Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia.,Foodbank WA, Perth Airport, WA, Australia
| | | | - Maria M Ryan
- Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | - Johnny Lo
- Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
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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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Abstract
OBJECTIVE This review summarises and synthesises the existing literature on the relationship between food insecurity (FS) and mental health conditions among adult individuals experiencing homelessness. DESIGN Scoping review. Papers published between 1 January 2008 and 2 November 2018, searched in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library and CINAHL, using homelessness, food security and mental health keywords. SETTING Global evidence. PARTICIPANTS Homeless adults aged 18 years or more. RESULTS Nine articles (eight cross-sectional and one longitudinal) were included in the present review. FS was measured using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale, the United States Department of Agriculture Household Food Security Survey Module, as well as single-item or constructed measures. Depression and depressive symptoms were the most common mental health conditions studied. Other mental health conditions assessed included alcohol and substance use, emotional disorders, mental health problems symptoms severity and psychiatric hospitalisations. Composite measures such as axis I and II categories and a cluster of severe mental conditions and mental health-related functioning status were also analysed. FS and mental health-related problems were considered as both exposure and outcome variables. The existing evidence suggests a potential association between FS and several mental health conditions, particularly depression, mental health symptoms severity and poor mental health status scores. CONCLUSIONS This review suggests the potential association between some mental health conditions and FS among homeless adults. However, there is a need for more longitudinal- and interventional-based studies, in order to understand the nature and directionality of the links between FS and mental health in this population group.
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Kloubec J, Harris C. Food Acquisition Strategies of Homeless Youth in the Greater Seattle Area: A Cross- Sectional Study. J Acad Nutr Diet 2020; 121:47-58.e1. [PMID: 32703689 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2020.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aims of this study were to describe how homeless youths access food in the Seattle area, and to describe the nutritional adequacy and quality of food obtained. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted between February 2018 and May 2019. Data collection took place at seven organizations in the greater Seattle area at which homeless youths typically access food. Trained research assistants verbally administered an ∼50-item survey to homeless youths aged 14 to 24 years on their general demographic characteristics, current housing situation, ability to access food, and quantity and quality of foods acquired. Each participant was given $10 at the completion of the survey. RESULTS Participants were 122 homeless youths with an average age of 21.6±1.94 years. During the previous week, 79.3% obtained meals from drop-in centers and 69.8% from a shelter. Most (75.2%) had not utilized a food bank during the previous month. The majority (73.6%) reported having enough food to eat, but not always the kind they wanted, and 75.4% rated the overall nutritional quality of their diet as average or below. Not having enough food or money for food contributed to skipping meals (50.4%), eating less than desired (47.1%), being hungry (45.5%), and losing weight (20.5%). CONCLUSIONS Information from this study can be used to identify barriers that homeless youths experience in acquiring adequate nutrition; to make suggestions for future research and program development; and to help social service organizations improve the network of nutrition services and the quality of food available to this vulnerable population through policy, community partnership, and public health action.
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Grier-Welch A, Marquis J, Spence M, Kavanagh K, Anderson Steeves ET. Food Acquisition Behaviors and Perceptions of Food Pantry Use among Food Pantry Clients in Rural Appalachia. Ecol Food Nutr 2020; 60:70-88. [PMID: 32687003 DOI: 10.1080/03670244.2020.1793138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Rates of food insecurity vary highly across and within regions in the U.S., with rural Appalachia having higher rates compared to the rest of the country, leading parts of the population to rely on food pantries as a source of food. This article explores how food pantries fit into a broader scope of food acquisition strategies of rural Appalachian households and aims to contextualize this with an understanding of how food pantry users perceive their food pantry use. Semi-structured interviews (n=20) were conducted with food pantry users in Eastern Tennessee, followed by a survey for collection of demographic data. NVivo 11.4 software was used for thematic analysis and theory formulation. In addition to pantry use, participants reported reliance on grocery stores, and reciprocal, informal, food-sharing social networks to get food. Lack of transportation, insufficient food quantity, and other factors depleted participants' food resources. Food stretching, refusing to waste food, acceptability of food pantry food, and money-saving strategies enhanced participants' food resources. Food pantries are a consistent, but not the only food source for those who use them. Food pantry users are savvy with their resources and employ multiple strategies to maintain their food supply despite high levels of food insecurity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeline Grier-Welch
- Department of Nutrition, University of Tennessee , Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jaime Marquis
- Department of Nutrition, University of Tennessee , Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Marsha Spence
- Department of Nutrition, University of Tennessee , Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Katie Kavanagh
- Department of Nutrition, University of Tennessee , Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
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Association of Problematic Alcohol Use and Food Insecurity among Homeless Men and Women. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17103631. [PMID: 32455769 PMCID: PMC7277400 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17103631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Food insecurity results from unreliable access to affordable and nutritious food. Homeless adults are particularly vulnerable to both food insecurity and problematic alcohol use. The current study examined the link between problematic alcohol use and food insecurity among homeless adults. Participants (N = 528; 62.7% men; Mage = 43.6 ± 12.2) were recruited from homeless-serving agencies in Oklahoma City. Problematic alcohol use was measured using the Alcohol Quantity and Frequency Questionnaire and the Patient Health Questionnaire. The latter used DSM-IV diagnostic criteria to assess probable alcohol use dependence/abuse. Heavy drinking was considered >7 drinks (women) and >14 drinks (men) per week. Food insecurity was measured with the USDA Food Security Scale-Short Form. The link between alcohol problems and food insecurity was examined with logistic regression analyses controlling for sex, age, education, income, and months homeless. Overall, 28.4% of the sample had probable alcohol dependence, 25% were heavy drinkers, and 78.4% were food insecure. Probable alcohol dependence and heavy drinking were correlated at 0.53 (p < 0.001). Results indicated that heavy drinking (OR = 2.12, CI.95 = 1.21, 3.73) and probable alcohol dependence/abuse (OR = 2.72, CI.95 = 1.55, 4.77) were each associated with increased odds of food insecurity. Food insecurity and problematic alcohol use are major issues among homeless populations; this study suggests they are associated. Future research is needed to shed light on potential causal mechanisms and on whether alcohol may take precedence over eating or food purchases.
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Sociodemographic factors associated with food insecurity: data from the 2003-2014 New South Wales Population Health Survey. Public Health Nutr 2020; 23:1857-1867. [PMID: 32408925 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980019005159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence and sociodemographic factors associated with food insecurity in the state of New South Wales (NSW), Australia. DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis of food insecurity data collected by the NSW Population Health Survey between 2003 and 2014. Multiple logistic regression was used to examine associations with key sociodemographic variables. SETTING NSW, Australia. PARTICIPANTS 212 608 survey participants responded to the food insecurity survey question between 2003 and 2014. 150 767 of them were aged ≥16 years. The survey sample was randomly selected and weighted to be representative of the NSW population. RESULTS On average 6 % of adults aged ≥16 years experienced food insecurity in NSW. The odds of food insecurity appeared to increase from one survey year to the next by a factor of 1·05. Food insecurity was found to be independently associated with age, sex, marital status, household size, education, employment status, household income, smoking status, alcohol intake and self-rated health. The association with income, smoking status and self-rated health appeared to be the strongest among all covariates and showed a gradient effect. Food insecurity appeared to increase significantly between the age of 16 and 19 years. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of food insecurity appears to be rising over time. Given the negative health consequences of food insecurity, more rigorous measurement and monitoring of food insecurity in NSW and nationally is strongly recommended. The findings provide support for interventions targeting low-income and younger population groups.
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Pollard CM, Booth S, Jancey J, Mackintosh B, Pulker CE, Wright JL, Begley A, Imtiaz S, Silic C, Mukhtar SA, Caraher M, Berg J, Kerr DA. Long-Term Food Insecurity, Hunger and Risky Food Acquisition Practices: A Cross-Sectional Study of Food Charity Recipients in an Australian Capital City. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16152749. [PMID: 31374922 PMCID: PMC6696626 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16152749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Inadequate social protection, stagnant wages, unemployment, and homelessness are associated with Australian household food insecurity. Little is known about the recipients of food charity and whether their needs are being met. This cross-sectional study of 101 food charity recipients in Perth, Western Australia, measured food security, weight status, sociodemographic characteristics and food acquisition practices. Seventy-nine percent were male, aged 21–79 years, 90% were unemployed, 87% received social assistance payments, and 38% were homeless. Ninety-one percent were food insecure, 80% with hunger, and 56% had gone a day or more without eating in the previous week. Fifty-seven percent had used food charity for ≥1 year, and, of those, 7.5 years was the mode. Charitable services were the main food source in the previous week, however 76% used multiple sources. Begging for money for food (36%), begging for food (32%), stealing food or beverages (34%), and taking food from bins (28%) was commonplace. The omnipresence and chronicity of food insecurity, reliance on social security payments, and risky food acquisition suggest that both the social protection and charitable food systems are failing. Urgent reforms are needed to address the determinants of food insecurity (e.g., increased social assistance payments, employment and housing support) and the adequacy, appropriateness and effectiveness of food charity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina M Pollard
- Faculty of Health Science, School of Public Health, Curtin University GPO Box U1987, Perth Western 6845, Australia.
| | - Sue Booth
- College of Medicine & Public Health, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide 5000, Australia
| | - Jonine Jancey
- Faculty of Health Science, School of Public Health, Curtin University GPO Box U1987, Perth Western 6845, Australia
| | - Bruce Mackintosh
- School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Perth 6009, Australia
| | - Claire E Pulker
- Faculty of Health Science, School of Public Health, Curtin University GPO Box U1987, Perth Western 6845, Australia
| | - Janine L Wright
- Faculty of Health Science, School of Public Health, Curtin University GPO Box U1987, Perth Western 6845, Australia
| | - Andrea Begley
- Faculty of Health Science, School of Public Health, Curtin University GPO Box U1987, Perth Western 6845, Australia
| | - Sabrah Imtiaz
- Faculty of Health Science, School of Public Health, Curtin University GPO Box U1987, Perth Western 6845, Australia
| | - Claire Silic
- Faculty of Health Science, School of Public Health, Curtin University GPO Box U1987, Perth Western 6845, Australia
| | - S Aqif Mukhtar
- Faculty of Health Science, School of Public Health, Curtin University GPO Box U1987, Perth Western 6845, Australia
| | - Martin Caraher
- Centre for Food Policy, City University of London, Northampton Square, London EC1V 0HB, UK
| | - Joel Berg
- Hunger Free America, 50 Broad Street, Suite 1103, New York, NY10004, USA
| | - Deborah A Kerr
- Faculty of Health Science, School of Public Health, Curtin University GPO Box U1987, Perth Western 6845, Australia
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McKay FH, Haines BC, Dunn M. Measuring and Understanding Food Insecurity in Australia: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16030476. [PMID: 30736305 PMCID: PMC6388276 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16030476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The number of Australians seeking food aid has increased in recent years; however, the current variability in the measurement of food insecurity means that the prevalence and severity of food insecurity in Australia is likely underreported. This is compounded by infrequent national health surveys that measure food insecurity, resulting in outdated population-level food insecurity data. This review sought to investigate the breadth of food insecurity research conducted in Australia to evaluate how this construct is being measured. A systematic review was conducted to collate the available Australian research. Fifty-seven publications were reviewed. Twenty-two used a single-item measure to examine food security status; 11 used the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM); two used the Radimer/Cornell instrument; one used the Household Food and Nutrition Security Survey (HFNSS); while the remainder used a less rigorous or unidentified method. A wide range in prevalence and severity of food insecurity in the community was reported; food insecurity ranged from 2% to 90%, depending on the measurement tool and population under investigation. Based on the findings of this review, the authors suggest that there needs to be greater consistency in measuring food insecurity, and that work is needed to create a measure of food insecurity tailored for the Australian context. Such a tool will allow researchers to gain a clear understanding of the prevalence of food insecurity in Australia to create better policy and practice responses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bronte C Haines
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Waterfront campus, Geelong, Victoria 3220, Australia.
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'Hello, you're not supposed to be here': homeless emerging adults' experiences negotiating food access. Public Health Nutr 2018; 21:1943-1951. [PMID: 29502547 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980018000356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to examine the food-seeking experiences of homeless emerging adults (age 18-24 years) in a US urban context. DESIGN The study used a qualitative descriptive design, combining semi-structured interviews with a standardized quantitative measure of food insecurity. Interview data were coded using constant comparative methods to identify patterns across and within interviews. Emerging themes were confirmed and refined through member checking. SETTING Buffalo, a mid-sized city in the Northeastern USA. SUBJECTS A sample of thirty participants was recruited through community-based methods. Eligibility criteria specified that participants were aged 18-24 years and did not have a stable place to live. The sample was demographically diverse and included participants who were couch-surfing, staying on the streets and/or using shelters. RESULTS Participants' food access strategies varied across their living circumstances. Common strategies included purchasing food with cash or benefits (reported by 77 %), using free meal programmes (70 %) and eating at friends' or relatives' homes (47 %). Although 70 % of participants received Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, several reported access barriers, including initial denials of eligibility due to being listed on a parent's application even when the participant no longer resided in the household. Participants described a stigma associated with using food pantries and free meal programmes and expressed preference for less institutionalized programmes such as Food Not Bombs. CONCLUSIONS Given endemic levels of food insecurity among homeless youth and young adults, policy modifications and service interventions are needed to improve food access for this population.
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Food Insecurity in Homeless Families in the Paris Region (France): Results from the ENFAMS Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15030420. [PMID: 29495563 PMCID: PMC5876965 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15030420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The number of families living in shelters in the Paris region (France) has increased by a factor of three in 10 years. In 2013, a survey was performed on homeless families in order to characterize their living conditions, their health needs, and the developmental problems in children. This probability survey was conducted in 17 languages among 801 homeless families sheltered in emergency centers for asylum-seekers, emergency housing centers, social rehabilitation centers, and social hotels in the Paris region. Among the 772 families that provided data on food security only 14.0% were with food security, whereas 43.3% were with low food security and 9.8% with very low food security (a situation where children are also affected). Stratified multivariate robust Poisson models showed that some characteristics are associated with a higher risk of food insecurity and/or of falling into very low food security, such as residential instability, single parenthood, having more than three children, depressive symptoms, housing in social hostels, and difficult access to cheap or free food locally. Given the wealth of the Paris region, resources and programs should be concentrated on improving the living situation of this vulnerable population. It needs better detection of these families, a closer social follow-up, and an increase in food aid.
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