Food insecurity status and some associated socioeconomic factors among newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes in Shiraz, 2012

Food insecurity is defined as the limited or uncertain availability of enough food for an always active and healthy life. Diabetes mellitus, one of the most common metabolic diseases, has been associated with significant morbidity and mortality and it is considered a health priority in Iran. Recent studies indicate the widespread prevalence of food insecurity and diabetes mellitus in Iranian society. This study reviews the status of food insecurity and effective socio-economic factors in people with type 2 diabetes.

This cross-sectional study was performed on 135 patients, aged between 30 and 55, who had recently been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Demographic and socioeconomic characteristics and food insecurity status were assessed using demographic and the 18-item USDA household food security questionnaires, respectively. Physical activity also was evaluated by MET, physical activity questionnaire. Data were analyzed by Chi-square, t-test, and logistic regression.

Prevalence of food insecurity was 66.7%. Food insecurity was significantly associated with economic status, education level, income, having child under 18 years of age, family size, and number of children (p<0.05); however, there was not a significant relationship between food insecurity and occupation, marital status, family history of diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease, age, and the amount of physical activity.

Considering the higher prevalence of food insecurity in diabetic patients, it can be said that it is likely that the incidence of diabetes is higher in food insecure people.