The Nexus between Climate Change and Nutrition Security and the Impact of this Relationship on Diet-Related Non-Communicable Diseases

Abstract

Life-threatening climate change, and burgeoning nutrition insecurity compounded by a steady rise in chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the defining issues of our time. This study is an exploration of the nexus between climate change and nutrition and the impact of this relationship on diet related NCDs. Quantitative methodologies, utilizing a descriptive cross-sectional study design was adopted. The study was carried out across Kenya, informed by the devastating climate changes and NCD cases the country has experienced recently. To recruit the study participants, a random sampling technique was adopted to select a sample size of 190. The study utilized an online questionnaire uploaded on KoboCollect and the link to the questionnaire was shared via WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and email. The quantitative data was downloaded and synchronized with Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS version 26.0) which was used to analyse the data. The study found that an increase in the price of basic food commodities, reduced amount of reliable agricultural output, destruction of crops, and change in the nutritional content and food composition are some of the major effects of climate change on nutrition security. Moreover, the study found that depletion of nutrition sources leads to diet-related NCDs (diabetes and hypertension) through increased consumption of unhealthy foods (calory and fat-dense diets), reduced access to recommended food for those living with diabetes and hypertension, and lack of food diversification. The study also found that increased demand for healthy foods has both positive and negative implications. Positive impacts reported include increased agricultural activities and innovations to address the growing demand for healthier. Negative impacts reported include strain on food production capacity and unsustainable agriculture practices that have long-term health effects. Policymakers are called upon to formulate policies that guarantee public health even amid the evolution of innovations that promise to address shortfalls in food availability, accessibility, reliability, and utilization