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Dharmayani PNA, Williams M, Lopes CVA, Ronto R, Chau JY, Partridge SR, Mihrshahi S. Exploring reasons for high levels of food insecurity and low fruit and vegetable consumption among university students post-COVID-19. Appetite 2024; 200:107534. [PMID: 38825015 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107534] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
High rates of food insecurity and low consumption of fruit and vegetables among university students have been observed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and intensified during the pandemic. This study aimed to investigate food insecurity among university students and its associations with sociodemographic factors, fruit and vegetable consumption behaviours, and preferred campus programs to address these issues. A convenience sample of 237 Australian university students completed a cross-sectional online survey from October to December 2022. Food insecurity was assessed using the 10-item US Adult Food Security Module, applying the Canadian classification scheme. Sociodemographic variables, fruit and vegetable consumption behaviours, and perceptions of fruit and vegetable access and their affordability were included in the survey. Students were also asked to select the most suitable program(s) and provide reasons for their choice using open-ended questions. Approximately half of respondents (46.4%) were identified as food insecure. The proportion of students meeting the recommended intake of vegetables as specified in the Australian Dietary Guidelines was very low (5.1%) compared with fruit (46.2%). Low fruit consumption was significantly associated with food insecurity (OR = 1.81; 95%CI 1.03, 3.18, p = 0.038). Factors such as the perceived lower accessibility and higher price of fruit and vegetables were significantly associated with higher odds of food insecurity. In terms of potential programs, a free fruit and vegetable campaign was the most popular program, with affordability and physical access being the most frequently cited reasons. These findings suggest that food insecurity is associated with low fruit and vegetable consumption in university students. Therefore, transforming campus food environments and developing food policies at the university level must be considered to address food and nutrition security in university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Putu Novi Arfirsta Dharmayani
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia.
| | - Miriam Williams
- Geography and Planning, Macquarie School of Social Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia.
| | - Carla Vanessa Alves Lopes
- 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.
| | - Josephine Y Chau
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Stephanie R Partridge
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - Seema Mihrshahi
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia.
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Onyeaka H, Ejiohuo O, Taiwo OR, Nnaji ND, Odeyemi OA, Duan K, Nwaiwu O, Odeyemi O. The Intersection of Food Security and Mental Health in the Pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals. Nutrients 2024; 16:2036. [PMID: 38999784 PMCID: PMC11243539 DOI: 10.3390/nu16132036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Food insecurity, a multifaceted global challenge, intertwines with mental health concerns, necessitating nuanced strategies for sustainable solutions. The intricate web of challenges posed by these intersections has made it imperative to delineate a strategic way forward, incorporating solutions and robust policy recommendations. This study aims to comprehensively examine the intricate relationship between food security and its intersection with mental health on a global scale, offering insights into case studies, responses, and innovative approaches to inform effective strategies for addressing these pressing challenges. This study involved an analysis of a literature search, mainly between 2013 and 2023, with an updated addition of relevant 2024 studies. Examining responses across regions unveils varied interventions, from targeted social safety net programs in West Africa to technology-driven solutions in Asia. Success stories, such as Ghana's sustainable agricultural practices and Canada's income transfer programs, underscore the efficacy of multifaceted approaches. Innovative initiatives like community food programs offer promising alternatives to traditional food banks. Furthermore, international cooperation and policy innovations, exemplified by the European Union's "Farm to Fork Strategy", demonstrate the potential for collective action in addressing food insecurity. By prioritizing integrated strategies, global collaboration, and evidence-based policymaking, we lay the groundwork for sustainable development where communities thrive nutritionally and mentally. We emphasize continuous research and evaluation and incorporating mental health support into community programs to pave the way for a future where communities are not only food-secure but also mentally resilient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Onyeaka
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B152TT, UK; (N.D.N.); (O.N.)
| | - Ovinuchi Ejiohuo
- Department of Psychiatric Genetics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
- Doctoral School, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Bukowska 70, 60-812 Poznan, Poland
- Molecular and Cell Biology Unit, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-572 Poznan, Poland
| | - Oluseyi Rotimi Taiwo
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200132, Oyo, Nigeria;
| | - Nnabueze Darlington Nnaji
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B152TT, UK; (N.D.N.); (O.N.)
- Department of Microbiology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu 410001, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Omowale A. Odeyemi
- College of Nursing, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, Ile Ife 220005, Osun, Nigeria;
| | - Keru Duan
- Birmingham Business School, Department of Management, University of Birmingham, University House Edgbaston Park Road, Birmingham B15 2TY, UK;
| | - Ogueri Nwaiwu
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B152TT, UK; (N.D.N.); (O.N.)
| | - Olumide Odeyemi
- Ecology and Biodiversity Centre, Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS), University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7004, Australia;
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Ibiyemi T, Najam W, Oldewage-Theron W. Hungry, Stressed, and Away From "Home": Predictors of Food Security and Perceived Stress Among International Students. Am J Health Promot 2024:8901171241257092. [PMID: 38832401 DOI: 10.1177/08901171241257092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Examine the predictors of food security and perceived stress among international students. DESIGN Cross-sectional Design. SETTINGS A public university in the Southwest United States. SUBJECTS Sample size of Seventy-three participants (≥18 years). MEASURES Self-report measures of food insecurity and perceived stress. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Adult Food Security Survey Module (AFSSM) to assess food security status, and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) questionnaire to evaluate stress levels. ANALYSIS Logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of food security and perceived stress. RESULTS Duration of stay in the U.S. was a predictor of food security status, while gender was a predictor of perceived stress. International students in the U.S. for less than a year had a lower chance of being food secure [OR (95% CI) = 0.22 (0.05 - 0.74)]. Female international students had a lower chance of experiencing low perceived stress [OR (95% CI) = 0.07 (0.00 - 0.51)]. CONCLUSION In supporting international students, targeted nutrition and stress management interventions should be emphasized, particularly for females and those who recently moved to the U.S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temitope Ibiyemi
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
- Department of Agriculture and Nutrition Science, Southern Utah University, Cedar City, UT, USA
| | - Wasiuddin Najam
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Wilna Oldewage-Theron
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
- Department of Sustainable Food Systems and Development, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, Republic of South Africa
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Lopes CVA, Dharmayani PNA, Ronto R, Hunter J, Mihrshahi S. Food Choices, Sustainability and Australian Native Foods: Perceptions among University Students. Foods 2024; 13:1677. [PMID: 38890905 PMCID: PMC11172005 DOI: 10.3390/foods13111677] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Urgent changes in our food choices are needed for more sustainable, resilient and equitable food systems. Australian native plant-based foods have both environmental and health benefits. Including these foods in our diet may reduce both the risk of chronic diseases and the impact of climate change. This study explored the perceptions and attitudes towards food choices, sustainability and Australian native plant-based food among university students. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was completed by 212 university students in Australia from October to December 2022. Questions included information about sociodemographic characteristics, food choices, Australian native foods and the impact on sustainability. Logistic regression was used for analyses. (3) Results: Most participants recognised the impact of food choices on sustainability. There was a significant association between recognition of the impact of food choices on sustainability and the environmental and nutritional benefits of Australian native foods (OR = 2.89, 95% CI 1.29, 6.46, p = 0.010). Students who were familiar with or had tried Australian native plant-based foods were significantly more likely to recognise their environmental and nutritional benefits (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: Students who recognise the impact of food choices on sustainability and the benefits of Australian native foods are more likely to include native foods in their diet. More studies are needed to investigate the specific native foods consumed and the barriers and facilitators to the intake of these foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Vanessa Alves Lopes
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia (S.M.)
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Keat J, Dharmayani PNA, Mihrshahi S. Benchmarking the university campus food environment and exploring student perspectives about food insecurity and healthy eating: a case study from Australia. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1245. [PMID: 38711106 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18664-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To benchmark the university food environment and explore students' experiences with food insecurity and healthy eating in order to inform interventions to improve access and affordability of healthy foods for university students. DESIGN A food environment audit was conducted on the university campus using the Uni-Food tool from April to May 2022 and was comprised of three main components, university systems and governance, campus facilities and environment, and food retail outlets. A qualitative study design was also used to conduct focus groups and semi-structured interviews with students to explore key themes regarding their experiences with food insecurity and healthy eating. SETTING Macquarie University, Australia. PARTICIPANTS For the food environment audit 24 retail outlets on campus and for the qualitative component 29 domestic and international students enrolled at Macquarie University. RESULTS The university only scored 27% in total for all components in the food environment audit. The results showed the need for better governance and leadership of the food environment. The qualitative component suggested that the main barriers to accessing healthy foods were related to availability, pricing, and knowledge of healthy foods. Future intervention ideas included free fruits and vegetables, food relief, discounts, improved self-catering facilities, education, and increased healthy food outlets. CONCLUSIONS Improving governance measures related to healthy eating on campus are a core priority to strengthen the food environment and students identified pricing and availability as key issues. These findings will inform effective and feasible interventions to improve food security and healthy eating on campus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemma Keat
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Level 3, 75 Talavera Road, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia.
| | - Putu Novi Arfirsta Dharmayani
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Level 3, 75 Talavera Road, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Seema Mihrshahi
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Level 3, 75 Talavera Road, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
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Rahgozar S, Giménez-Llort L. Design and effectiveness of an online group logotherapy intervention on the mental health of Iranian international students in European countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1323774. [PMID: 38449504 PMCID: PMC10915759 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1323774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The secondary impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to widespread psychological challenges, significantly strained international students' mental health. The present work sought to design and assess the efficacy of an Online Group Logotherapy Protocol, an existential psychology approach developed by Viktor Frankl, to reduce anxiety and depression levels among Iranian international students who were migrants/refugees in different European countries during the pandemic. Methods The study recruited 70 students (58 females and 12 males, age range 20-35, 6 EU countries) experiencing moderate levels of anxiety and depression as measured by the Beck Anxiety (BAI) and Depression (BDI) Inventories at pre-test. Half the participants received a short-term closed group intervention comprising 6 online sessions / 90 min of logotherapy. The control group received 6 sessions without specific psychological treatment. Results The designed logotherapy sessions consisted of 1. Fundamentals of logotherapy, 2. Existential concerns, 3. Introspection, 4. Self-awareness and growth, 5. Empowering and facing challenges, 6. Meaning of life and conclusions. Five logotherapy techniques were used: Socratic Dialog, Modification of Attitude, Paradoxical Intention, Dereflection, and Logodrama. After the sessions, the post-test MANCOVA analysis showed a more potent effect of logotherapy reducing depression and anxiety than that elicited without intervention. The Eta coefficient suggests that the observed difference explains the effect of logotherapy with a strong power of 89%. Conclusion These findings unveil (1) the benefits of online group sessions despite the geographical distance and (2) the relevance of logotherapy effectively reducing depression and anxiety in such complex scenarios where psychological resources and cultural competencies are limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Rahgozar
- Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lydia Giménez-Llort
- Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut de Neurociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Hilal S, Kolozsvári LR, Indrayathi PA, Saeed SN, Rurik I. Psychological Distress and Food Insecurity among International Students at a Hungarian University: A Post-Pandemic Survey. Nutrients 2024; 16:241. [PMID: 38257134 PMCID: PMC10820830 DOI: 10.3390/nu16020241] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was two-fold: Firstly, to estimate the prevalence of psychological distress among international students at a Hungarian university two years after the COVID-19 outbreak; and secondly, to identify its demographic and socioeconomic factors, with special regard to the students' food-security status. A cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire was carried out from 27 March to 3 July 2022 among international students at the University of Debrecen. The questionnaire included information on demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, food-security status (six-item United States Department of Agriculture Food Security Survey Module (USDA-FSSM)), and psychological distress (Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21)). Bivariate analysis was conducted to examine the potential associations between demographic/socioeconomic factors and psychological distress. Additionally, multiple logistic regression was employed to further analyze these associations. Of 398 participants, 42.2%, 48.7%, and 29.4% reported mild to extremely severe depression, anxiety, and stress, respectively. The ages 18-24 (AOR = 2.619; 95% CI: 1.206-5.689) and 25-29 (AOR = 2.663; 95% CI: 1.159-6.119), reporting a low perception of health status (AOR = 1.726; 95% CI: 1.081-2.755), and being food insecure (AOR = 1.984; 95% CI: 1.274-3.090) were significantly associated with depressive symptoms. Being female (AOR = 1.674; 95% CI: 1.090-2.571), reporting a low perception of health status (AOR = 1.736; 95% CI: 1.098-2.744), and being food insecure (AOR = 2.047; 95% CI: 1.327-3.157) were significantly associated with anxiety symptoms. Furthermore, being female (AOR = 1.702; 95% CI: 1.026-2.824)), living with roommates (AOR = 1.977; 95% CI: 1.075-3.635), reporting a low perception of health status (AOR = 2.840; 95% CI: 1.678-4.807), and being food insecure (AOR = 2.295; 95% CI:1.398-3.767) were significantly associated with symptoms of stress. Psychosocial programs combined with strategies to alleviate food insecurity are required to enhance international students' mental health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soukaina Hilal
- Department of Family and Occupational Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (L.R.K.); (P.A.I.)
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (S.N.S.); (I.R.)
| | - László Róbert Kolozsvári
- Department of Family and Occupational Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (L.R.K.); (P.A.I.)
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (S.N.S.); (I.R.)
| | - Putu Ayu Indrayathi
- Department of Family and Occupational Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (L.R.K.); (P.A.I.)
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (S.N.S.); (I.R.)
| | - Sami Najmaddin Saeed
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (S.N.S.); (I.R.)
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, University of Debrecen, 4028 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Imre Rurik
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (S.N.S.); (I.R.)
- Department of Family Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
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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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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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González-Pérez R, García-Iruretagoyena L, Martinez-Perez N, Telleria-Aramburu N, Telletxea S, Padoan S, Torheim LE, Arroyo-Izaga M. Prevalence and Predictors of Food Insecurity among Students of a Spanish University during the COVID-19 Pandemic: FINESCOP Project at the UPV/EHU. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15081836. [PMID: 37111055 PMCID: PMC10142759 DOI: 10.3390/nu15081836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Research related to food insecurity (FI) among European university student populations is currently limited, especially the studies carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study aimed to assess the prevalence and identify possible predictors of FI among students from a Spanish public university, the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional observational study design was used, in which a total of 422 students completed an online survey. Results were weighted according to age and field of education. Binary logistic regressions adjusted by sex, age, and campus were applied to identify FI predictors. FI in 19.6, 2.6, and 0.7% of the population was mild, moderate, and severe, respectively. The three main predictors of FI were a decrease in the main source of income (OR, 2.80; 95% IC, 2.57-3.06), not receiving scholarships during the pandemic (OR, 2.32; 95% IC, 2.18-2.47), and living arrangements before the pandemic (not living with parents/relatives) (OR, 2.03, 95% IC, 1.89-2.18). This study found a high prevalence of FI among the students surveyed, and the strongest predictors of this FI were related to socioeconomic status. A robust and comprehensive policy response is recommended to mitigate FI in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel González-Pérez
- Department of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Laura García-Iruretagoyena
- Department of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Naiara Martinez-Perez
- Department of Nursing I, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940 Leioa, Spain
- BIOMICs Research Group, Microfluidics & BIOMICs Cluster UPV/EHU, Lascaray Research Centre, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Nerea Telleria-Aramburu
- Department of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Saioa Telletxea
- Department of Social Psychology, Research Group in Social Psychology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 20018 San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Sonia Padoan
- Department of Social Psychology, Research Group in Social Psychology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 20018 San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Liv Elin Torheim
- Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet), 0130 Oslo, Norway
| | - Marta Arroyo-Izaga
- Department of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- BIOMICs Research Group, Microfluidics & BIOMICs Cluster UPV/EHU, Lascaray Research Centre, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Bioaraba, BA04.03, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
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Ahmed D, Benavente P, Diaz E. Food Insecurity among International Migrants during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5273. [PMID: 37047889 PMCID: PMC10093953 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20075273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus and the measures imposed to control it have impacted food security globally, particularly among vulnerable populations. Food insecurity, in turn, has repercussions on health, exacerbating pre-existing inequalities. This scoping review maps the literature describing associations between the COVID-19 pandemic and food insecurity among migrants, with a particular view toward health. A total of 909 papers were extracted through four electronic databases, and 46 studies were included. The migrant populations described originated mainly from Latin America (11/46) and were located in North America (21/46). Most studies included refugees and asylum seekers (20/46). The main challenges described were financial hardship (28/46), the effect of migrants' documentation status on using public food aid (13/46), and the suspension of or reduction in humanitarian assistance due to the economic recession (7/46). The impact of food insecurity on migrants' mental and physical health was described in 26 of the 46 studies. Authorities in all destination countries should focus their attention and efforts into ensuring nutrition security for migrants in a holistic way, including their economic and legal integration, to be better prepared for health crises in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doua Ahmed
- Centre of International Health, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
- Pandemic Centre, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Pierina Benavente
- Pandemic Centre, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Esperanza Diaz
- Pandemic Centre, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
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Bauch C, Torheim LE, Almendingen K, Molin M, Terragni L. Food Habits and Forms of Food Insecurity among International University Students in Oslo: A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2694. [PMID: 36768058 PMCID: PMC9915265 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
A growing number of studies indicate that university students and especially international students are prone to experiencing food insecurity (FI). Still, few studies have investigated forms of FI among international students in Europe. Thus, this qualitative study aims to explore experiences regarding FI among international university students in Oslo. Sixteen semi-structured interviews were conducted between May and June 2022 and analyzed using a thematic approach. The sustainable livelihood approach (SLA) was used as a framework for analyzing and interpreting the data. The students experienced food prices as being high and found food variety at the grocery stores to be low, resulting in struggles to fulfil their food preferences and keep a varied diet. Particularly, social aspects of eating were affected due to high dining prices or inadequate cooking facilities in student homes. However, no student openly reported skipping meals and many mentioned attention for healthy eating. Considering our results, it seems of importance to give more attention to cultural and social aspects related to FI when assessing FI among international students. As the number of international students is increasing, knowing more about this phenomenon can support the promotion of initiatives addressing FI in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Bauch
- Faculty of Oecotrophology, University of Applied Sciences Fulda, 36037 Fulda, Germany
| | - Liv Elin Torheim
- Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet), 0130 Oslo, Norway
| | - Kari Almendingen
- Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet), 0130 Oslo, Norway
| | - Marianne Molin
- Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet), 0130 Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Kristiania University College, 0153 Oslo, Norway
| | - Laura Terragni
- Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet), 0130 Oslo, Norway
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