Food insecurity among female collegiate athletes exists despite university assistance
Crystal Clark Douglas1, Simone P Camel2, Wesley Mayeux3
1Nutrition & Metabolism, University of Texas Medical Branch School of Health Professions, Galveston, TX, USA.
Objective:
To determine the prevalence and characteristics of food insecurity among female collegiate athletes.
Participants:
NCAA Division I female athletes attending a public university located in East Texas in 2018.
Methods:
A prospective cross-sectional online survey was employed to gather quantitative and qualitative data regarding food security status. Participants were instructed to complete the 26-item questionnaire, including the six-item USFSSM.
Results:
Participants (N = 78) were 18-22 years of age, largely white (75%). Despite most (89.74%) receiving some form of scholarship and 80% reporting provision of some meals, 32.10% were classified as food insecure. Barriers to food intake were two-fold higher among the food insecure (88% vs 43%, p < .001); limited time (43.6%) and finances (23.1%) were the most frequently reported barriers.
Conclusions:
Despite university support, food insecurity exists in female collegiate athletes. Outcomes warrant screening for food insecurity, referral to support resources throughout matriculation, and tailored intervention programs.
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