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Vilme H, Duke NN, Dokurugu Y, Akin-Odanye EO, Paul CJ, Kaninjing E, López IA, Matsouaka R, Brown Speights JS, De Leon J, Sauls DL, Ndip RN, Amissah F, Bosworth H, Warren CL, Muiruri C. Food insecurity among university students in the United States amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024; 72:1490-1495. [PMID: 35816732 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2082840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study reports on food insecurity (FI) amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS College students in four regions of the US completed the two-item validated Hunger Vital Sign™ screening tool on Qualtrics. RESULTS FI increased significantly after March 2020 among US students (worry about food running out: 25% to 35%; food did not last: 17% to 21%) with significant regional increase in the Midwest and South. An adjusted multivariable logistic regression model indicated students that ran out of food were significantly at greater odds of experiencing hardship with paying bills (AOR: 5.59, 95% CI =3.90-8.06). CONCLUSIONS The findings identified an increase in the prevalence of FI among college students during the pandemic. Suggestions of how to address FI are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene Vilme
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Naomi N Duke
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Sociology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Yussif Dokurugu
- Institute of Global Health, Inc. 603 MLK Jr. Blvd, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | | | - Christopher J Paul
- Department of Public Administration, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Ernest Kaninjing
- School of Health and Human Performance, Georgia College, Milledgeville, GA
| | - Ivette A López
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Utah Area Health Education Centers, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Roland Matsouaka
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Joedrecka S Brown Speights
- Department of Family Medicine and Rural Health, Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Jessica De Leon
- Department of Family Medicine and Rural Health, Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Derrick L Sauls
- Department of Public Health and Exercise Science, Saint Augustine's University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Roland N Ndip
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Felix Amissah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Ferris State University, Big Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Hayden Bosworth
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Durham VA Health Care System, Health Services Research and Development, Durham, NC, USA
- Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation (ADAPT), Durham, NC, USA
| | - Carol L Warren
- Department of Interprofessional Education, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Charles Muiruri
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
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Hall RP, Agnew J, Liu W, Petrie L, North C. Systematic investigation of inadequate food access at a large southeastern land grant university. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298041. [PMID: 38446778 PMCID: PMC10917268 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, the impact of low food security on student well-being and academic performance has become a growing concern at institutions of higher education across the U.S. This mixed methods study adds to the growing body of evidence on the association between student socio-demographic and economic characteristics and food security. An online survey covering food access, student well-being, and housing security was sent to 35,337 undergraduate and graduate students at a large southeastern land grant university. A total of 2,116 complete responses were received; a 6% response rate. The survey responses also included 176 written statements by students. The survey found that 16% of both undergraduate and graduate students had low or very low food security, as defined by a modified USDA food security measure. The socio-demographic and economic characteristics that were linked to a higher likelihood of low food security included: having a GPA of less than 3.0, having a disability, being an international student, being a first-generation student, being a transfer student, going into debt to pay for food, being a Black or African American student, having poor mental health, having uncertain living arrangements, and having no medical insurance. Recommendations for enhancing student access to food, housing, and mental health services are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph P. Hall
- The School of Public and International Affairs, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Jessica Agnew
- CALS Global, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Computer Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Lana Petrie
- College of Agriculture, Tennessee State University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Chris North
- Department of Computer Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
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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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Shi Y, Allman-Farinelli M. Food insecurity in international and domestic students at an Australian university 2 years into the global COVID-19 pandemic. Nutrition 2023; 116:112196. [PMID: 37672870 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2023.112196] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this article is to explore the differences in the prevalence, sociodemographic determinants, and effects of food insecurity between international and domestic students in an Australian university during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS This study uses a cross-sectional online survey. The questionnaire contained the 18-item Household Food Security Survey Module to assess food security status. Logistic regression models were used to analyze the associations between student characteristics and food insecurity. A total of 467 students (376 domestic and 91 international) attending a large university in Sydney completed the survey between October 2021 and May 2022. RESULTS Compared with domestic students (13.0% food insecure), international students (18.7% food insecure) had higher odds of being food insecure in our sample (odds ratio = 2.02; 95% CI, 1.01-4.07; P = 0.013). Different risk factors for food insecurity were identified in these two student groups (e.g., being undergraduates and living outside the parental home, for domestic students, and, for international students, living in accommodation that provided meals that did not suit their preferences and experiencing changes in living arrangements due to the pandemic). Lower fruit intake was reported by food-insecure domestic students. Poor well-being was reported by both food-insecure domestic and international students. International students with food insecurity were more likely to use food assistance services than food-insecure domestic students. CONCLUSIONS International students experienced a higher risk of food insecurity than domestic students during the pandemic in Australia. More tailored interventions to address food insecurity need to be developed for international and domestic students by considering their different experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumeng Shi
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Margaret Allman-Farinelli
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Benfo A, Zumesew F, Akoto EB, Ahiakwah E, Baidoo B, Agyapong NAF, Boachie J, Adu P. Exploring the perspective of young adults about anaemia prevention; the contributions of knowledge about at-risk groups and consequences of anaemia. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2081. [PMID: 37875836 PMCID: PMC10598987 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16980-2] [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: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anaemia persistently remains a grave public health challenge in most sub-Saharan African countries. Understanding the perspectives of young adults concerning the multi-factorial nature of anaemia may be an important step towards meeting the 2025 global nutrition target of halving anaemia since these individuals might be in the process of reproductive decisions. AIM To explore the relationship between students' knowledge about individuals at risk of developing anaemia, and anaemia consequences, and anaemia prevention strategies in a tertiary student cohort. METHODS This sequential exploratory study adopted a mixed-methods approach to triangulate the data collection. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to gather baseline data regarding students' perspective on anaemia. Themes that emerged from the initial questionnaire data analyses guided a focus group discussion (FGD) to further explore students' perspectives on anaemia. FGD data was thematically analysed to unearth reasons behind questionnaire item selection. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to explore the relationship between constructs in the anaemia knowledge questionnaire. RESULTS Overall, 543 students participated in the initial questionnaire data acquisition compared to 16 in the FGD. Our latent variable structural model showed that knowing the causes of anaemia did not significantly (p > 0.05) associate with either knowledge about anaemia consequences (b = 0.113) or knowledge about anaemia prevention strategies (b = 0.042). However, knowledge about individuals at-risk of anaemia was significantly positively associated with both anaemia prevention strategies (b = 0.306, p < 0.05) and knowledge about consequences of anaemia (b = 0.543, 95%). Moreover, knowing the consequences of anaemia seemed to significantly positively mediate the association between knowledge about at-risk groups and preventive measures that could be adopted (b = 0.410, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Systems thinking public health educational campaigns that highlight the consequences of anaemia and at-risk groups are more likely to inspire the adoption of preventive strategies among young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Benfo
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Francis Zumesew
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Ebenezer Bugyei Akoto
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Edward Ahiakwah
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Belinda Baidoo
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Nana Ama Frimpomaa Agyapong
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Joseph Boachie
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Patrick Adu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.
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Lee Y, Yoon H, Kim T, Jung H. Food Insecurity during the Pandemic in South Korea: The Effects of University Students' Perceived Food Insecurity on Psychological Well-Being, Self-Efficacy, and Life Satisfaction. Foods 2023; 12:3429. [PMID: 37761140 PMCID: PMC10528267 DOI: 10.3390/foods12183429] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study examined the impact of university students' perceptions of food insecurity on psychological well-being, self-efficacy, and life satisfaction and observed that the students' gender plays a moderating role in this causal relationship, based on a total of 491 university students who participated in this empirical study. This study used SPSS (Version 22.0) and AMOS (Version 20.0) for the analyses. This study examines the structural relationship of this causal model. Our findings suggest that students' perceived food insecurity negatively affects the status of their psychological well-being and self-efficacy. However, contrary to expectations, perceived food insecurity has no negative effects on students' life satisfaction. In addition, the level of students' psychological well-being positively influences their life satisfaction, while self-efficacy does not. The moderating effects of gender differences in this research were also disclosed. Limitations and future research directions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoojin Lee
- Smart Education Platform, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (Y.L.); (T.K.)
| | - Hyehyun Yoon
- Department of Culinary Arts and Foodservice Management, College of Hotel & Tourism Management, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
| | - Taehee Kim
- Smart Education Platform, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (Y.L.); (T.K.)
| | - Hyosun Jung
- Center for Converging Humanities, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
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Celik ÖM, Ozyildirim C, Karacil Ermumcu MS. Evaluation of food insecurity and its association with food consumption and some variables among college students. JOURNAL OF HEALTH, POPULATION, AND NUTRITION 2023; 42:90. [PMID: 37658419 PMCID: PMC10472615 DOI: 10.1186/s41043-023-00436-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Students are an important group threatened by food insecurity. Food insecurity among college students is one of the research topics that is attracting attention worldwide, and interest in this topic is growing by the day. Food insecurity has a negative impact on students' biological, mental and social health. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of food insecurity and correlate it with frequency of food consumption and some variables among undergraduate students. METHODS This descriptive-analytical study was conducted with 1149 university students at Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey. The demographic characteristics of the individuals (gender, age, living situation, income status, and health information), anthropometric measurements (body weight and height), nutritional habits, frequency of food consumption, and Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) were questioned. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software was used for statistical analyses. RESULTS It was found that 13.1% of the students have mild, 13.0% moderate, and 9.4% severe food insecurity. The rate of individuals with and without food security differs according to gender, living situation, and income status (p < 0.05). There was a statistically significant correlations between the food insecurity score and age (p = 0.047), the number of main meals (p < 0.001) and snacks (0.007), and consumption frequency of certain foods (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The prevalance of students facing food insecurity was high. Individuals with food insecurity have a lower frequency of healthy food consumption than individuals with food security. Steps should be taken to ensure nutritional security among undergraduate students, who are the young adult population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özge Mengi Celik
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Caner Ozyildirim
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
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Dana LM, Wright J, Ward R, Dantas JAR, Dhaliwal SS, Lawrence B, O'Connor M, Booth S, Kerr DA, Pollard CM. Food Insecurity, Food Assistance, and Psychological Distress among University Students: Cross-Sectional Survey Western Australia, 2020. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15112431. [PMID: 37299396 DOI: 10.3390/nu15112431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
University students have been identified as a population sub-group vulnerable to food insecurity. This vulnerability increased in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to assess factors associated with food insecurity among university students and the differences between students with and without children. A cross-sectional survey of (n = 213) students attending one university in Western Australia measured food insecurity, psychological distress, and socio-demographic characteristics. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with food insecurity. Forty-eight percent of students who responded to the survey had experienced food insecurity in 2020. International students who were studying in Australia were nine times more likely to experience food insecurity than domestic students (AOR = 9.13; 95% CI = 2.32-35.97). International students with children were more likely to experience food insecurity than international students without children (p < 0.001) and domestic students with (p < 0.001) or without children (p < 0.001). For each unit increase in depression level, the likelihood of experiencing food insecurity increased (AOR = 1.62; 95% CI = 1.12-2.33). Findings show a higher prevalence of food insecurity among international university students and students with children during the COVID-19 pandemic and that food insecurity was associated with higher levels of psychological distress. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to mitigate the risk of food insecurity among Australian university students, particularly among international students, students with children, and those experiencing psychological distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyuwork Mitiku Dana
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Science, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Janine Wright
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Science, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Rebecca Ward
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Science, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Jaya A R Dantas
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Science, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Satvinder S Dhaliwal
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Science, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
- Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Jalan Inovasi, George Town 11800 USM, Malaysia
- Office of the Provost, Singapore University of Social Sciences, 463 Clementi Rd, Singapore 599494, Singapore
| | - Blake Lawrence
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Science, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Moira O'Connor
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Science, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
- Enable Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Sue Booth
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Sturt Rd, Bedford Park, Adelaide, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Deborah A Kerr
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Science, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Christina M Pollard
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Science, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
- Enable Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
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Loofbourrow BM, Scherr RE. Food Insecurity in Higher Education: A Contemporary Review of Impacts and Explorations of Solutions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20105884. [PMID: 37239614 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20105884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Food insecurity is a global phenomenon which impacts a variety of social, economic, and life-stage groups. One such group affected by food insecurity is college students, who tend to experience food insecurity at a prevalence which exceeds the average of their local communities. The impacts of food insecurity in this population are multifaceted and have implications for their college experience and beyond. Food insecurity has been observed to have negative effects on college student academic performance, physical health, and mental health. This review explores the impacts of and solutions for food insecurity in this population globally, with particular emphasis on the United States, and specifically California.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachel E Scherr
- Family, Interiors, Nutrition and Apparel, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA 94132, USA
- Scherr Nutrition Science Consulting, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
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A Comparison of Experiences with Factors Related to Food Insecurity between College Students Who Are Food Secure and Food Insecure: A Qualitative Study. J Acad Nutr Diet 2023; 123:438-453.e2. [PMID: 35940496 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2022.08.001] [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: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research has reported negative health consequences and poor academic achievement among college students who are food insecure. It is unknown if students with food insecurity's experiences qualitatively differ from students who are food secure. OBJECTIVE To qualitatively evaluate experiences of students who are food secure and food insecure with internal and external factors related to food insecurity. DESIGN Trained interviewers conducted in-person qualitative interviews from February to August 2018 to gain insights about eating patterns, food environment, financial situation, and ideas for addressing food insecurity on college campuses with students who are food secure and food insecure. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Students from three universities in the western United States (N = 58) who were classified as food secure (n = 28) and food insecure (n = 30) using the US Department of Agriculture's 6-item Food Security Module participated in this study. STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using a conventional content analysis. A random sample of transcripts were independently coded to determine interrater reliability. Researchers divided transcripts for final coding and overarching themes were discussed. Descriptive statistics were used. RESULTS Students who were both food secure and food insecure obtained food from similar sources (eg, grocery stores); had unexpected expenses that led to financial constraints; indicated transportation barriers altered the amount or package size of food purchased; and reported similar knowledge, attitudes, use, and familial history of food assistance. Students with food insecurity uniquely reported prioritizing rent or other living expenses over food, and when funds were low, reducing food intake, experiencing a variable food supply throughout the month, or using strategies like donating plasma or selling possessions to enhance financial stability. CONCLUSIONS This study helps nutrition and dietetics practitioners better understand how college students' experiences with factors related to food insecurity differ by food security status. Future quantitative research is needed to confirm the coping strategies identified among students with food insecurity in this study.
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Bennett CJ, Christian M, Phan S, McCabe M, Cornish K, Kleve S. Food insecurity during COVID-19: An Australian university experience. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e5401-e5411. [PMID: 35950351 PMCID: PMC9538495 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence, severity, coping strategies and precipitating factors of food insecurity in university students in a large multi-campus Australian university during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, in context of providing information to inform institutional support. This was a cross-sectional analysis which was part of a larger university-led research project, the Thrive@Home study conducted at Monash University during the COVID-19 pandemic. The main outcome measures included: Sociodemographic characteristics, PROMIS anxiety, PROMIS depression and the six-item US Department of Agriculture Household Food Security Survey Module. All variables were reported according to the four levels of food security status (high (H), marginal (M), low (L) and very low (VL)). Chi-squared tests were used to compare all categorical variables including demographic, mental health and food security status. A multivariable regression was conducted between food security status and mental health variables. Overall, n = 1315 students were included in the analysis. Of which, 5% were classified as having VL food security, 13% L, 14% M and 68% H. As food security worsened the likelihood of being unemployed looking for work, living alone and deteriorating physical health, diet quality and mental health increased. As food security status deteriorated the prevalence of needing to ask family or friends for food, shopping at multiple outlets for discounts, accessing emergency food relief, subsidised meals and financial assistance from organisations increased (p < 0.002). In regression models adjusting for covariates, depression (b (95%CI): VL = 7.2(4.1-10.3), L = 3.7(1.7-5.7), M = 2.0(0.1-3.8)) and anxiety (VL = 7.4(4.5-10.4), L = 3.5(1.5-5.4) and M = 2.0(0.3-3.8)) were positively associated with worsening food security. Food insecurity during COVID-19 was associated with worsening mental health. This paper provides targets for future university-led initiatives to promote student food security and supporting better access to physical and mental health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christie Jane Bennett
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and FoodSchool of Clinical Sciences, Monash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Meaghan Christian
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and FoodSchool of Clinical Sciences, Monash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Shirley Phan
- Buildings and Property DivisionMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Melinda McCabe
- School of Psychological SciencesTurner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Kim Cornish
- School of Psychological SciencesTurner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Sue Kleve
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and FoodSchool of Clinical Sciences, Monash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
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Mihrshahi S, Dharmayani PNA, Amin J, Bhatti A, Chau JY, Ronto R, Turnip D, Taylor M. Higher Prevalence of Food Insecurity and Psychological Distress among International University Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Australian Perspective. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192114101. [PMID: 36360979 PMCID: PMC9658209 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and related disruptions have not only affected university students' learning and academic outcomes, but also other issues, such as food security status, mental health and employment. In Australia, international students faced additional pressures due to sudden border closures and lack of eligibility for government-provided financial support. This study explored the experiences of domestic and international university students residing in Australia during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic across a range of outcomes. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between July and September 2020 at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia. The online survey included food insecurity status, mental health (psychological distress), disruptions to study, employment and sleep. A total of 105 students (n = 66 domestic and n = 39 international) completed the survey. Respondents reported having food insecurity (41.9%) and psychological distress (52.2%, with high and very high levels), with international students reporting significantly higher food insecurity (OR = 9.86 (95% CI 3.9-24.8), p < 0.001) and psychological distress scores (t(90) = 2.68, 95% CI: 1.30 to 8.81, p = 0.009) than domestic students. About one quarter of all respondents reported disruptions to study and employment status around the time of the survey. When asked what government support should be provided for international students, 'financial aid' was the most frequently suggested form of support. This research may help governments and educational institutions design appropriate support, particularly financial and psychological, for both international and domestic university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Mihrshahi
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Putu Novi Arfirsta Dharmayani
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Janaki Amin
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Alexandra Bhatti
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Josephine Y. Chau
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Rimante Ronto
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Diana Turnip
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Melanie Taylor
- School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
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Kent K, Visentin D, Peterson C, Ayre I, Elliott C, Primo C, Murray S. Severity of Food Insecurity among Australian University Students, Professional and Academic Staff. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14193956. [PMID: 36235608 PMCID: PMC9571391 DOI: 10.3390/nu14193956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Assessments of the severity of food insecurity within Australian university students are lacking, and the experience of food insecurity in Australian university staff is unknown. A cross-sectional online survey in March 2022 aimed to characterize the severity of food insecurity in students, professional and academic staff at the University of Tasmania (UTAS). The Household Food Security Survey Module six-item short form assessed food security status in addition to seven demographic and education characteristics for students and six demographic and employment characteristics for staff. Participants were categorized as having high, marginal, low, or very low food security. Multivariate binary logistic regression identified students and staff at higher risk of food insecurity. Among student respondents (n = 1257), the prevalence of food insecurity was 41.9% comprising 8.2% marginal, 16.5% low, and 17.3% very low food security. Younger, non-binary, first-year enrolled, on campus, and international students were at significantly higher risk of food insecurity. Among staff (n = 560), 16.3% were food insecure comprising 3.8% marginal, 5.5% low, and 7.0% very low food security. Professional staff, staff on casual contracts, and staff recently employed, were at significantly higher risk of food insecurity. Our findings suggest a high occurrence of food insecurity in UTAS students and staff, with a large proportion of food insecure staff and students experiencing very low food security. Our findings have implications for efforts towards reducing food insecurity at university campuses through a holistic and integrated approach, advocating for food systems that support healthy, sustainable, and equitable food procurement and provision for both university students and staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Kent
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
- School of Health Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia
- Correspondence: (K.K.); (S.M.)
| | - Denis Visentin
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Corey Peterson
- Sustainability Unit, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia
| | - Ian Ayre
- Sustainability Unit, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia
| | - Catherine Elliott
- Sustainability Unit, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia
| | - Carmen Primo
- Sustainability Unit, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia
| | - Sandra Murray
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
- Correspondence: (K.K.); (S.M.)
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Amin N, Akbari H, Jafarnejad S. Food security, mental health, and socioeconomic status: A cross-sectional study among medical college students in central part of Iran, Kashan. Health Sci Rep 2022; 5:e476. [PMID: 35036577 PMCID: PMC8753500 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Food security is a complex and multidimensional issue that has been recognized as a serious public health problem all over the world for the past two decades. The present study was designed and conducted to determine the prevalence of food insecurity among college students at the Kashan University of Medical Sciences and some related factors including socioeconomic and mental health determinants. Methods The present study is a cross‐sectional study conducted on 358 students who were currently studying at the Kashan University of Medical Sciences. The students who were pregnant or had a special diet to follow were excluded. Samples were selected by the systematic method. Food security was measured using United States Department of Agriculture. Food Frequency Questionnaire, 21‐items Depression Anxiety Stress Scales, and Socioeconomic Questionnaire were used to investigate the nutrients intake, depression/anxiety status, and socioeconomic factors, respectively. Chi‐square, independent t‐test, and logistic regression were used to analyze the data. Results Based on the findings of the present study, 16.8% of students experienced different levels of food insecurity, and 83.2% of participants were categorized as food secure. Gender, financial assistance, health insurance, depression, and students' occupation are associated with food insecurity (P < .05). Additionally, the results of the logistic regression analysis showed that depression (OR 1.04; 95% CI 1.01‐1.07), and students' jobs (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.23‐0.80) have the greatest impact on students' food insecurity. Conclusion The findings of the present study show that economic factors and gender have a significant impact on students' food security. Moreover, the association of food insecurity with mental disorders such as depression was demonstrated in the current study. However, we could not detect any significant association between daily energy intake and macronutrients which indicates the requirement for more detailed studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negin Amin
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases Kashan University of Medical Sciences Kashan Iran
| | - Hossein Akbari
- Social Determinants of Health (SDH) Research Center, Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology School of Public Health, Kashan University of Medical Sciences Kashan Iran
| | - Sadegh Jafarnejad
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases Kashan University of Medical Sciences Kashan Iran
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Food insecurity and mental health of college students in Lebanon: a cross-sectional study. J Nutr Sci 2022; 11:e68. [PMID: 36106091 PMCID: PMC9428660 DOI: 10.1017/jns.2022.68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to assess the prevalence of food insecurity (FI) among college students and explore its association with indicators of mental and psychosocial health. Data were collected using a cross-sectional online survey from college students in different universities in Lebanon during the Spring 2021 semester. FI was assessed using the validated eight-item food insecurity experience scale. The mental health of college students was assessed using validated screening tools for depression, anxiety and well-being, namely the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) and the World Health Organization (WHO-5) index, respectively. Multiple linear regression models were conducted to assess the relationship of FI with PHQ-9, GAD-7 and WHO-5 scores. A total of 745 students completed the online survey. Approximately 39 % of students in the sample were experiencing FI of which 27·4, 8·1, and 3·5 % were experiencing mild, moderate and severe FI , respectively. Low maternal education, low household monthly income and high levels of stress were significant correlates of FI among college students (P-trend < 0·001). In addition, 22·6 and 34·4 % of students showed severe symptoms of depression and anxiety, respectively. Regression models showed that FI was associated with higher scores on PHQ-9 and GAD-7 (β = 2·45; 95 % CI [1·41, 3·49]) and (β = 1·4; 95 % CI [1·1, 2·2], respectively) and lower scores on WHO-5 (β = −4·84; 95 % CI [−8·2, −1·5]). In conclusion, a remarkable proportion of college students reported experiencing different forms of FI, which was associated with poorer mental health and well-being outcomes. Public health programmes and interventions are needed to mitigate FI and improve student health-related outcomes.
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ANGOTTI AA, ZANGIROLANI LTO. Food insecurity and financial aid among university students: Pre-Covid-19 scenario of a public university in southeastern Brazil. REV NUTR 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-9865202235e220061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT: Objective: To estimate the prevalence of food insecurity among beneficiary and non-beneficiary university students of financial aid and associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study, with a probabilistic sample of 100 university students, was conducted at a federal university located on the coastal city of São Paulo in southeastern Brazil. The data made it possible to address sociodemographic aspects, food security and food quality markers. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, Fisher’s exact association test and Mann-Whitney comparisons of means were used to investigate the prevalence of food insecurity between groups and associations with covariables at 5%. Results: The results revealed significant differences between groups. Receiving financial aid was associated with more vulnerability to facing food insecurity: 94% have some level of food insecurity (p=0.001); non-white skin color (p=0.019); overseeing one’s own income (p=0.001); the amount of money available to stay at the university (p=0.030). According to food quality markers, both groups often consumed ultra-processed foods (unhealthy quality marker). In contrast, most (92.3%) were concerned with consuming healthy foods. Conclusion: The pre-Covid-19 scenario reveals that despite receiving financial aid, a large part of students faced food insecurity in the three months prior to the study. Therefore, food insecurity should be recognized as a public health concern among university students, and adequate resources should be made available to avoid the occurrence of dropouts and assist in breaking the intergenerational cycle of social exclusion and the human right to food.
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17
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Nava-Amante PA, Betancourt-Núñez A, Vizmanos B, Salas-García MA, Bernal-Orozco MF, Vargas-García EJ, Díaz-López A. Prevalence and Risk Factors of Food Insecurity among Mexican University Students' Households. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13103426. [PMID: 34684437 PMCID: PMC8541269 DOI: 10.3390/nu13103426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Household food insecurity (FI) remains a major public health challenge worldwide. Data about perceived FI and its risk factors in Mexican university students are lacking. We aimed to assess FI's prevalence and factors affecting it among university students' households in Mexico. This cross-sectional analysis involved 7671 university students' households using the 2018 Mexican National of Household Income and Expenditure Survey data. Variables analyzed included sociodemographic characteristics, and the 12-item validated Mexican Scale for Food Security (EMSA). Multivariable logistic regression modelling was performed to identify FI risk factors. The overall household FI prevalence was 30.8%. According to FI severity, prevalence rates were 16.3% for mild-FI, 8.8% for moderate-FI, and 5.7% for severe-FI. Low socioeconomic status (OR = 2.72; 95%CI: 2.09-3.54), low education level of household's head (OR = 2.36; 95%CI: 1.90-2.94), self-ascription to an indigenous group (OR = 1.59; 95%CI: 1.41-1.79), attending public university (OR = 1.27; 95%CI: 1.13-1.43), female-headed household (OR = 1.26; 95%CI: 1.13-1.40), having worked recently (OR = 1.19; 95%CI: 1.07-1.33), and being in second year of studies (OR = 1.17; 95%CI: 1.03-1.33), were significantly related to FI. Our results confirm that FI is highly prevalent among Mexican university students' households and that sociodemographic factors are essential in addressing this concern. Findings highlight the need for preventive programs and policies to alleviate FI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Alejandro Nava-Amante
- Doctorado en Ciencias de la Nutrición Traslacional, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara (UdeG), Guadalajara 44320, Mexico; (P.A.N.-A.); (M.A.S.-G.); (M.F.B.-O.)
| | - Alejandra Betancourt-Núñez
- Doctorado en Ciencias de la Nutrición Traslacional, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara (UdeG), Guadalajara 44320, Mexico; (P.A.N.-A.); (M.A.S.-G.); (M.F.B.-O.)
- Instituto Traslacional de Nutrigenética y Nutrigenómica, CUCS, UdeG, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico
- Correspondence: (A.B.-N.); (B.V.); Tel.: +52-(33)-1058-5200 (ext. 33872) (A.B.-N. & B.V.)
| | - Barbara Vizmanos
- Doctorado en Ciencias de la Nutrición Traslacional, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara (UdeG), Guadalajara 44320, Mexico; (P.A.N.-A.); (M.A.S.-G.); (M.F.B.-O.)
- Instituto Traslacional de Nutrigenética y Nutrigenómica, CUCS, UdeG, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico
- Correspondence: (A.B.-N.); (B.V.); Tel.: +52-(33)-1058-5200 (ext. 33872) (A.B.-N. & B.V.)
| | - Miguel Amaury Salas-García
- Doctorado en Ciencias de la Nutrición Traslacional, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara (UdeG), Guadalajara 44320, Mexico; (P.A.N.-A.); (M.A.S.-G.); (M.F.B.-O.)
| | - María Fernanda Bernal-Orozco
- Doctorado en Ciencias de la Nutrición Traslacional, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara (UdeG), Guadalajara 44320, Mexico; (P.A.N.-A.); (M.A.S.-G.); (M.F.B.-O.)
- Instituto Traslacional de Nutrigenética y Nutrigenómica, CUCS, UdeG, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico
| | - Elisa J. Vargas-García
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Iberoamericana León, León 37238, Mexico;
| | - Andrés Díaz-López
- Serra Hunter Fellow, Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), 43201 Reus, Spain;
- Nutrition and Mental Health Research Group (NUTRISAM), Rovira i Virgili University (URV), 43201 Reus, Spain
- Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), 43201 Reus, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y la Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Hernández P, Camardiel A. Association Between Socioeconomic Status, Food Security, and Dietary Diversity Among Sociology Students at the Central University of Venezuela. FRONTIERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2021.623158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Venezuela is currently in a difficult social, political, and economic situation that has exposed people to many factors, including socioeconomic disadvantages, food insecurity, and lack of access to healthy and nutritious foods. These factors are associated with low dietary diversity, especially for economically dependent university students. In this study, we aimed to identify the associations between socioeconomic status, food security, and dietary diversity among sociology students at the Central University of Venezuela (UCV). This cross-sectional study was conducted between June and November 2016 on a simple random sample of 270 students. Indicators were calculated using data collected by the Mendez-Castellano socioeconomic questionnaire, the Community Childhood Hunger Identification Projects Scale of Food Security adapted and validated for Venezuelans (Cronbach's alpha = 0.898), and the validated dietary diversity scale for individuals. The rate response was 100%. It was observed that most of the sample is located between the socioeconomic status of the rich and middle class (82.6%), presents some degree of food insecurity (85.9%), and maintains a diet with low dietary diversity (54.8%). Our main finding is that the socioeconomic status in the households of those students is not associated with either their food security level or their dietary diversity, but these constructs are related in a significant statistical way. In particular, the odds of a student household having a diverse diet instead of a monotonous diet are 3.92 (95% CI: 2.91; 4.93) times greater for those in food security instead of moderate/severe food insecurity. It is concluded that these students have a multifactorial critical food situation, in which the food right is violated, which could affect their permanence and academic performance.
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19
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Food Insecurity: Is It a Threat to University Students' Well-Being and Success? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18115627. [PMID: 34070321 PMCID: PMC8197461 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Food insecurity is a growing concern among university students. The high prevalence of food insecurity is a threat to students' health and success. Therefore, this study aims to determine an association between food security status, psychosocial factors, and academic performance among university students. A total of 663 undergraduate students in seven randomly selected faculties in Universiti Putra Malaysia participated in this study. An online survey was conducted to obtain demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, food security status (six-item USDA; food security survey module, FSSM), psychosocial factors (depression, anxiety and stress scale, DASS-21) and academic performance. Among the abovementioned participating students, 32.4% are male. About 62.8% reported to have experienced food insecurity. Binary logistic regression revealed that students whose fathers were working (AOR = 6.446, 95% CI: 1.22, 34.01) came from low- (AOR = 14.314, 95% CI: 1.565, 130.954) and middle-income groups (AOR = 15.687, 95% CI: 1.720, 143.092), and those receiving financial aid (AOR = 2.811, 95% CI: 1.602, 4.932) were associated with food insecurity. Additionally, food insecurity students were less-likely reported, with CGPA ≥ 3.7 (AOR = 0.363, 95% CI: 1.22-34.014). Food insecurity respondents had higher odds for stress (AOR = 1.562, 95% CI: 1.111, 2.192), anxiety (AOR = 3.046, 95% CI: 2.090, 4.441), and depression (AOR = 2.935, 95% CI: 2.074, 4.151). The higher institutions should identify students with food insecurity problems and future intervention programs need to be conducted to combat food insecurity among students, thus yielding benefits to their health and success.
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20
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Charles Shapu R, Ismail S, Ahmad N, Lim PY, Abubakar Njodi I. Food Security and Hygiene Practice among Adolescent Girls in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Borno State, Nigeria. Foods 2020; 9:foods9091265. [PMID: 32927593 PMCID: PMC7555868 DOI: 10.3390/foods9091265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Inadequate food security contributes to poor health outcome for all, including adolescent girls. The study aims at determining the level of food security and hygiene among adolescent girls. A school-based cross-sectional study was carried out among adolescent girls aged 10 to 19 years old from six schools in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Borno State. The instrument for data collection was a questionnaire using KoBoCollect Toolbox between June and July 2019. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the predictors of food security and hygiene among respondents. A majority of the respondents (73.5%) were in a very low food security level. Three factors were significantly associated with food security level, these included schools (p = 0.007), age of mother (p = 0.004), and occupation of mother (p < 0.001). School (p = 0.003), age (father p = 0.017; mother; p = 0.012), hygiene (p = 0.005), and occupation of mother (p = 0.002) were predictors of food security. About (46.6%) of respondents had poor hygiene practice, school (p = 0.016) was significantly associated with hygiene practice. School (p = 0.019; and p = 0.005) and food security (p = 0.009) were predictors of hygiene practice. This study reveals a high prevalence of low food security among adolescent girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Charles Shapu
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (R.C.S.); (N.A.); (P.Y.L.)
- College of Nursing and Midwifery, Damboa Road, Maiduguri, 600252 Maiduguri, Nigeria
| | - Suriani Ismail
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (R.C.S.); (N.A.); (P.Y.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +60-19-2249828
| | - Norliza Ahmad
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (R.C.S.); (N.A.); (P.Y.L.)
| | - Poh Ying Lim
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (R.C.S.); (N.A.); (P.Y.L.)
| | - Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi
- Department of Physical and Health Education, University of Maiduguri, 600230 Maiduguri, Nigeria;
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