Food security among preschool children

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Public Health
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Food security is crucial for preschool children's development.
• Understanding factors associated with food insecurity is vital for targeted interventions.
• Previous research highlights socioeconomic determinants of nutritional status.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess food security status among preschool children.
• To identify variables associated with food insecurity in this population.
• To inform public health strategies for improving child nutrition.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study of 450 families with preschool children.
• Food security assessed using 24-hour recall, 1-day weighment, and monthly food purchase inventory.
• Statistical analysis included Chi-square and odds ratio to determine associations.

Main Results:

• Only 42.6% of households and 54% of children were calorically secure.
• Food insecurity was highest in the 48-59 months age group.
• Associated factors included low per capita income, higher birth order, larger family/household size, lower maternal education, fewer than 4 meals daily, and insufficient pulse availability.

Conclusions:

• Low per capita income, family size, and household size are linked to food availability and distribution.
• Maternal education and meal frequency are critical for ensuring preschool children receive adequate nutrition.
• Interventions should address socioeconomic factors and promote nutritional education for mothers.