Associations Between Food Security, Housing and Health in South Australia

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Socioeconomic Determinants of Health
• Health Outcomes Research

Background:

• Household food security is a growing challenge, particularly for disadvantaged populations.
• Food insecurity is linked to socioeconomic factors like housing instability and poor health.
• Limited data exists on food security and its health associations in South Australia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the prevalence of food insecurity in South Australia.
• To investigate the association between food security, housing circumstances, and health outcomes.
• To provide data for public health policy and interventions in the region.

Main Methods:

• A population health survey was conducted with 3002 South Australian participants in April 2023.
• Data collected included food security status, housing details, and chronic/mental health conditions.
• Descriptive and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess associations.

Main Results:

• 16.4% of participants reported low or very low food security.
• Food-insecure individuals were more likely to rent, face housing cost pressures, and lack food storage/preparation facilities.
• Food insecurity was significantly associated with higher odds of chronic conditions, mental health conditions, and lower overall wellbeing.

Conclusions:

• Food security is a critical determinant of health, impacting physical and mental wellbeing.
• Regular monitoring of food insecurity prevalence and addressing structural factors are essential.
• Further research is needed to understand the complex links between food security and health outcomes.