Food Insecurity among Syrian Pregnant Women: a cross- sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Background: Food insecurity, defined as “the lack of regular and secure access to enough safe and nutritious food for normal growth, development, and active, healthy life”,is of significant importance considering its serious and long-term consequences on public health. Additionally, nations grappling with armed conflicts and economic downturns are especially susceptible to food insecurity, exacerbating their healthcare challenges. Moreover, pregnancy is considered a critical phase due to the increased nutrition demand to ensure the well-being of both the pregnant woman and her child. Methods: The study took place in (AlTawlid University Hospital), one of the most prominent women and childbirth centers in Syria, between 20/6/2023 and 30/7/2023. Five hundred pregnant women were interviewed. An Arabic version of The U.S. Household Food Security Survey: Six-Item Module was used to identify food insecurity in our sample. Results: The sample consisted of 460 pregnant women who completed the questionnaire and agreed to participate in the study. Seventy-three percent of pregnant women were found to be food insecure. Statisticallysignificant relationshipsbetween women's food security and their highest level of education, self-reported financial status, age, number of children, and meals consumed per day were found. It is also notable that 20% of the women came from Damascus, 67.4% from Rif Dimashq, and 12.6% from other governorates. The average number of meals pregnant women consumed per day was 2.4±0.75. Conclusion: The prevalence of food insecurity among pregnant women in Syria is higher compared to other countries in the region, highlighting the urgent need for national programs to identify and address food insecurity, particularly among the most vulnerable populations. Our findings indicate low adherence to prenatal care, which has been linked to increased perinatal mortality rates and lower birth weights. Immediate and comprehensive interventions are necessary in Syria and other low-income, conflict-affected countries in the region to mitigate the adverse effects of food insecurity.