Factors Associated with Food Insecurity Among College Students at a Large Northeastern University

Abstract

Abstract Objectives To determine the prevalence of food insecurity and its associated factors among health sciences students at a large Northeastern University. Methods A cross-sectional web-based survey was emailed to students in the 2019 spring semester. Food insecurity was assessed using the United States Department of Agriculture validated 6-item short-form food security module. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression with food insecurity as the dependent variable was used to analyze the data. Results Of the 344 responses, the mean age was 29 ± 8 years, 79% were female, and 54% were White. One-third (33%) were first-generation college students, 59% had an annual income of <$25,000 and 58% were in a doctoral degree program. Thirty % of all respondents were classified as food insecure. In univariate logistic regressions, annual income <$25,000 (P = 0.007), being a first-generation college student (P = 0.008), receiving financial support that required repayment [loans] (P < 0.0001) and receiving financial support through the university (P = 0.03) were all associated with higher odds of being food insecure. Having an excellent diet quality (P = 0.004), not utilizing a food pantry (P = 0.008) or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program [SNAP] (P = 0.01) in the previous year were associated with lower odds of being food insecure. After adjusting for other covariates, having an excellent diet quality (P = 0.03) and not using SNAP in the previous year (P = 0.03) were associated with a lower odds of being food insecure. Receiving loans was independently associated with higher odds of being food insecure after adjusting for other covariates (P = 0.0003). Conclusions The prevalence of food insecurity in this sample was comparable to those found in other studies. We found that whilst receiving loans were associated with being food insecure, a diet of better quality, as well as non-utilization of SNAP, was associated with less odds of being food insecure. Interventions to target food insecurity on this health profession campus and other college campuses are needed to reduce the levels of food insecurity among college students and improve their health and academic outcomes. Funding Sources The office of the Chancellor provided funds for gift cards raffled off to participants.