Food Security, Nutritional Status and Prevalence of Hypertension Among Industrial Migrant Workers in Chennai

Abstract

Objectives: This study assesses the lifestyle of industrial migrant workers in Chennai, focusing on associations between the food security of migrant workers and hypertension, category of work, their native state, and body mass index. Methods: An in-depth analysis of their eating patterns was conducted by using a three-day dietary record and a regional food frequency questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements were acquired, which together with their dietary data assessed their nutritional status. The Food Insecurity Experience Scale was used to evaluate the migrant workers' level of food security, while a digital blood pressure monitor was used to measure the participants' blood pressure. The chi-square test was analyzed to measure the significance of the difference in outcome variables between groups. Findings: 41.24% of migrants do not face food security. However, their food diversity has significantly decreased. The BP is high among migrant workers (136.66±19.36/98.54±13.37mmHg) compared to Indian adults, with 84.54% being hypertensive. The results show that the food security of migrant workers was not significantly correlated with hypertension (p>0.345), category of work (p>0.085), their native state (p>0.315), and BMI (p>0.963). This suggests that dietary acculturation plays a major role and could potentially result in the rise in comorbidities. Novelty: Migrant workers, categorized as vulnerable groups, lack necessary attention. This study provides valuable insight into the lifestyle of migrant workers living in Chennai by utilizing multiple methods. The need for quality and adequate food to enhance the nutritional status is emphasized. For this, it's important to identify migrant workers with comorbidities, educate them, and provide aid to alleviate their situation. Keywords: Food security, Food Insecurity Experience Scale, Migrant workers, Nutritional status, Hypertension, Malnutrition