Food insecurity in adults with severe mental illness: A systematic review with meta‐analysis

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionFood insecurity in adults living with Severe Mental Illness (SMI) is an underresearched area worldwide.AimThis systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to identify and collate evidence on food insecurity in adults with SMI, in high‐ and upper‐middle income countries.MethodA comprehensive electronic search was completed up to August 2022. Random effects meta‐analysis was undertaken to determine the prevalence and the odds ratio for food insecurity in adults with SMI. Narrative synthesis explored the data further.ResultsSixteen publications were included (13 in the meta‐analysis). The prevalence estimate of food insecurity in adults with SMI was 41% (95% CI: 29% to 53%, I2 = 99.9%, n = 13). Adults with SMI were 3.31 (95% CI: 2.03 to 5.41) times more likely to experience food insecurity than comparators without SMI (z = 6.29, p < .001, I2 = 98.9%, n = 6). Food insecurity appears to be a risk factor for developing SMI.DiscussionThis review suggests adults with SMI living in high‐ or upper‐middle income countries are more likely to experience food insecurity than the general population and that this relationship may be inverse.Implications for practiceMental health practitioners should be aware of food insecurity and support individuals with SMI to access sufficient food.