High Prevalence of Food Insecurity and Factors Associated with Haitian Immigrants in Southern Chile
Journal
Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health
Date Issued
2019
Author(s)
Eduard Maury-Sintjago
Alejandra Rodríguez-fernández
Danny E. García
Julio Parra-Flores
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10903-019-00893-7
Abstract
The objective was to determine the association between sociodemographic factors and food insecurity (FI) in Haitian immigrants in southern Chile. An analytical cross-sectional design was used. The sample consisted of Haitian immigrants residing in Southern Chile, who were recruited from community centers and completed a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Latin-American and Caribbean Food Security Scale. Multivariable analyses were performed to identify factors associated with FI. FI prevalence in the 234 participants was 78%; 60% had severe FI. Having children (OR 3.6; 95% CI 1.6–7.4), limited Spanish proficiency (OR 3.5; 95% CI 1.8–7.3), no access to basic services (OR 2.8; 95% CI 1.2–6.4), and not being a legal permanent resident (OR 2.4; 95% CI 1.1–6.1) were associated with significantly higher odds of FI. Over three-quarters of Haitian immigrants in southern Chile suffer from FI. Tailored intervention strategies are needed to address this major public-health issue, with a special focus on those at highest risk, including families with children, and those with limited Spanish proficiency, no access to basic services, and without legal permanent resident status.
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