Food insecurity is a pressing global issue, particularly in regions affected by conflict and economic instability. This article explores the risk of food insecurity among hospitalized patients in Lebanon, a country with a history of political and economic turmoil. The study aims to understand the association between social determinants of health (SDH) and food insecurity in this vulnerable population.
Lebanon, a small Middle Eastern nation, has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years, including wars, political instability, and a devastating financial crisis. These conditions have led to a significant influx of refugees, putting immense pressure on the healthcare system and the economy. With a population of over 6.8 million, Lebanon hosts one of the highest refugee concentrations per capita, including Syrian and Palestinian refugees, further exacerbating the strain on resources.
The study, conducted in 2021, involved a cross-sectional observational design, surveying a random sample of adult hospitalized patients across five large hospitals in different districts of Lebanon. The survey collected data on socio-demographic characteristics, health coverage, and medical history, as well as four key indicators of SDH: area of residence, education level, employment status, and healthcare access.
The results revealed a high risk of food insecurity among the participants, with 79.5% identified as being at risk. The study found that residents of predominantly rural areas, particularly in the North and Bekaa districts, faced significantly higher odds of food insecurity. Additionally, participants with higher levels of education, particularly those with high school or university degrees, had lower odds of food insecurity. Employment status, household size, and healthcare coverage were not significant predictors of food insecurity in this study.
The findings highlight the critical role of SDH, especially educational level and geographical residence, in the experience of food insecurity among hospitalized patients. The study emphasizes the importance of screening for food insecurity and its associated determinants in healthcare settings to design effective programs and interventions to mitigate the risk of food and nutrition insecurity among vulnerable groups.
Furthermore, the study suggests that hospitals can play a crucial role in early detection and support for individuals experiencing food insecurity. The development of simple screening tools, such as the two-item tool adapted from the US Department of Agriculture, can help identify at-risk individuals and connect them with appropriate food assistance and social welfare programs.
In conclusion, this research sheds light on the complex interplay between social determinants of health and food insecurity among hospitalized patients in Lebanon. By understanding these associations, healthcare providers and policymakers can develop targeted interventions to address food insecurity and improve the overall health and well-being of vulnerable populations in conflict-affected settings.
