scholarly journals Food Insecurity in the Post-Disaster Harvey Setting

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. 138-138
Author(s):  
Kevin Fitzpatrick ◽  
Matthew Spialek ◽  
Don Willis ◽  
Jessica Paschal ◽  
Emily English
Keyword(s):  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Depressive Symptomatology ◽  
Gulf Coast ◽  
Psychological Resources ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Funding Sources ◽  
Resource Limited ◽  
Disaster Survivors ◽  
Resource Hypothesis ◽  
Post Disaster

Abstract Objectives The paper examines the interrelationship among risks, resources, and food insecurity among a post-disaster sample of Hurricane Harvey survivors. Specific hypotheses are tested proposing positive relationships between risk and food insecurity and negative relationships between social and psychological resources and their relationship with food insecurity. Methods Random and representative samples were collected among survivors living on the Texas Gulf Coast. Efforts were made to sample and interview survivors in both different cities as well as those experiencing different evacuation circumstances. Both face-to-face interviews and online interviews were used to collect data from 316 survivors. The sample was obtained using quota groupings based on sociodemographic composition and residential location. Results Both correlation and regression results show support for the general risk and resource hypotheses. Sociodemographic findings show that younger, renters, poorer educated survivors without access to their own transportation reported higher levels of food insecurity in the weeks and months following Hurricane Harvey making landfall in August 2017. Additionally, risks for higher levels of food insecurity were found among persons with higher depressive symptomatology, with higher levels of previous disaster exposure, and reporting a greater concern for climate change. Both strength of social ties and mastery of fate were negatively related to food insecurity, supporting the general resource hypothesis that a greater presence of either social or psychological resources could potentially lower food insecurity among post-disaster survivors. Conclusions Our findings lend support to a risk and resources model that has already been applied to food insecurity research in other populations. Its applicability to the resource limited post-disaster setting is important and provides evidence for addressing directly the immediate mental and physical health needs of the population, in addition to the service provider and infrastructural need. Like earlier work, our findings suggest an uneven recovery experience that is likely both dependent on who you are and where you live. Funding Sources National Science Foundation.

scholarly journals Food Insecurity in the Post-Hurricane Harvey Setting: Risks and Resources in the Midst of Uncertainty

2020 ◽  
Vol 17 (22) ◽  
pp. 8424
Author(s):  
Kevin M. Fitzpatrick ◽  
Don E. Willis ◽  
Matthew L. Spialek ◽  
Emily English
Keyword(s):  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Social Ties ◽  
Home Ownership ◽  
Psychological Resources ◽  
Regression Analyses ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Two Factors ◽  
Social Vulnerabilities ◽  
Independent Effects ◽  
Post Disaster

Food insecurity is of heightened concern during and after natural disasters; higher prevalence is typically reported in post-disaster settings. The current study examines food insecurity prevalence and specific risk/resource variables that may act as barriers or advantages in accessing food in such a setting. Using a modified quota sample (n = 316), Hurricane Harvey survivors participated in face-to-face interviews and/or online surveys that assessed health, social and household factors, and sociodemographic characteristics. Using logistic regression analyses we find that social vulnerabilities, circumstantial risk, and social and psychological resources are important in determining the odds of food insecurity. Hispanic and/or Nonwhite survivors, renters, and those persons displaced during the natural disaster have higher food insecurity odds. Survivors with stronger social ties, higher levels of mastery, and a greater sense of connectedness to their community are found to have lower food insecurity odds. A more nuanced analysis of circumstantial risk finds that while the independent effects of displacement and home ownership are important, so too is the intersection of these two factors, with displaced-renters experiencing significantly higher odds than any other residence and displacement combinations, and particularly those who are homeowners not displaced during the disaster. Strategies for addressing differential risks, as well as practical approaches for implementation and education programming related to disaster recovery, are discussed.

scholarly journals Evidence for Designing Public Policies Aimed at Reducing Food Waste and Food Insecurity in Mexico

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. 1727-1727
Author(s):  
Verónica Mundo-Rosas
Keyword(s):  
Public Policy ◽  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Food Waste ◽  
Scientific Evidence ◽  
Public Policies ◽  
Southern Mexico ◽  
Funding Sources ◽  
National Production ◽  
Development Goals ◽  
Food Residues

Abstract Objectives To analyze the magnitude and distribution of food waste and insecurity in Mexico as a first step in designing public policies to counteract these problems. Methods Based on methodology proposed by Subirats et al. (2008), we analyzed the magnitude and distribution of food waste and insecurity in Mexico. Using scientific evidence and official data, we responded to the following guiding questions: What is the problem? What is the magnitude of the problem? Who are the population groups most affected by the problem and where do they reside? To what extent does coverage under current public policies address these problems? Results Problem: By 2050, the Mexican population will have grown by 22.9 million with respect to 2015. The country's capacity to produce the amount of food required in the future will depend largely on what proportion of the population has the necessary financial resources to acquire the food it needs, and whether food is equitably distributed. Magnitude of the problem: Mexico loses and wastes approximately 34% of the national production of items in the basic food basket while 26.4 million Mexicans lack sufficient income to acquire the quantity and quality of food they need. Those affected the most: From an environmental viewpoint, the larger cities in Mexico constitute the principal production centers of food waste, among other residues. This causes air, land and water pollution at the regional level, as well as serious health problems in the population. From an ethical and nutritional perspective, food waste indirectly affects those experiencing food insecurity. Location of the affected population: In 2012, central Mexico was the largest generator of urban solid waste including organic and, specifically, food residues. Conversely, southern Mexico was the region most affected by food insecurity. Public policy coverage: Despite the magnitude of the problem, several Mexican states have no public policy in place to combat food waste or insecurity. Conclusions The evidence provided by our study contributes to decision making in the formulation of public policies aimed at reducing food loss and waste as well as food insecurity. It also serves to monitor progress towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Funding Sources None.

scholarly journals Improvement of the heart failure patient process for the prevention of new events through tele-education and continuous tele-optimization of the treatment by nursing staff

2021 ◽  
Vol 28 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
M Perez Serrano ◽  
CNP Carlos Nicolas Perez Garcia ◽  
DEV Daniel Enriquez Vazquez ◽  
MFE Marcos Ferrandez Escarabajal ◽  
JDD Jesus Diz Diaz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Heart Failure ◽  
Nyha Class ◽  
Randomized Study ◽  
Primary Objective ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Close Monitoring ◽  
Chronic Patients ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Funding Sources

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction patients with heart failure (HF) are especially vulnerable to SAR-CoV-2 infection especially due to their worse prognosis for this disease. Purpose to demonstrate that patients with HF will present similar health outcomes if their education and pharmacological treatment is optimised remotely by a nurse rather than through conventional care. Methods  A single-centre, observational, prospective, non-randomized study was carried out in which two groups were compared. The experimental group had most of their care provided virtually by a nurse who could optimise their medication according to the clinical guides whilst the control group received conventional face-to-face care. During a follow-up period of 6 months, patients included in the study have an initial face-to-face consultation with a cardiologist and an evaluation of the patient where the treatment objectives are established. The rest of the follow-ups were done through videoconsultation with the nurse every 15 days for 6 months where the neurohormonal treatment was optimized and an educational program was carried out with different cardiovascular educational topics. Results   Thirty-seven patients have been included. Sex: 30 men (81.0%) and 7 women (19.0%) Mean age: 67.9 years (12.8). Range 42-87 years. Etiology: 61.2% ischemic and 38.8% non-ischemic mean LVEF at inclusion = 30.2%. A total of 17 patients have completed the study: a 13% average improvement of FEVI, a reduction of NT-proBNP of and improvement in functional heart failure class. The primary objective was to compare the proportion of neurohormonal drugs prescribed, as well as the mean of the maximum doses reached in each after 6 months of follow-up, as well as mean ejection fraction, NYHA class and mean NT-proBNP (Table 1) Conclusions Telemedicine offers us valuable tools that allow us to take care of chronic patients, reducing exposure to the virus as much as possible. Efficient use of virtual tools and human resources makes close monitoring possible. Specialized nursing is a key element in the education, pharmacological optimization and monitoring of these patients. Parámetros analíticos Valores iniciales Valores finales NT-proBNP ( pg/mL) 3469,7 (± 4057,3) 1446,4 (± 1305,2) Creatinina (mg/dL) 1,10 (± 0,24) 1,12 (± 0,39) TFG (mL/min/1,73m2 ) 65,4 (± 21,2) 62,7 (± 23, 6) Potasio (meq /L) 4,5 (± 0,5) 4,6 (± 0,4) Fevi 29,4 % (± 7,2) FEVI 42,7 % (± 9,6)

scholarly journals The Importance of Prison Farms: Evidence from Malawi’s Prisons

2018 ◽  
Vol 7 (3) ◽  
pp. 9
Author(s):  
Hastings Moloko ◽  
Davis Ng’ong’ola ◽  
Henry Kamkwamba
Keyword(s):  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Cereal Production ◽  
Per Capita ◽  
Prison Farms

While Malawi’s per capita cereal production may be higher than her per capita cereal consumption, Malawi is a net cereal importer and thus food insecure. The food situation is much worse in Malawi’s prisons because inmates generally eat one meal per day.The general objective of this study was to determine the importance of farms in Malawi’s prisons by comparing food insecurity in prisons with farms to that in prisons without farms. Using structured questionnaires in face to face interviews, the study collected data from 1000 prisoners and 30 officers-in-charge from all prisons in the country. The data was analysed using Stata 12 and employed the probit and the Foster-Greer-Thorbecke (FGT) models as an analytical tools.Results from the analysis showed that practically all prisoners in Malawi’s prisons were food insecure. There was a higher perception of food insecurity in prisons without farms than there was in prisons with farms. Conditions of severe food insecurity were experienced more in non-farmed prisons than in farmed prisons, and more prisoners in non-farmed prisons depended on food brought to them from their homes. Food insecurity was more prevalent in prisons without farms than in prisons with farms.

scholarly journals Household Food Insecurity and Its Association with Behavioral Problems in Children Living in Urban Slums: Findings from Karachi, Pakistan (P04-081-19)

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nadia Shah ◽  
Mehwish Hussain
Keyword(s):  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Behavioral Problems ◽  
Linear Regression Analysis ◽  
Urban Slums ◽  
Household Food Insecurity ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Funding Sources ◽  
Household Food ◽  
Multi Stage ◽  
Almost All

Abstract Objectives To determine prevalence of Household Food Insecurity in urban slums of Karachi To assess children's behavior living in a state of food insecurity in urban slums To relate Household food insecurity with child's behavior Methods The study used a cross-sectional descriptive survey; conducted in 12 towns from all six districts of Karachi using multi-stage sampling methods. The structured questionnaire, comprised of Socio-demographic information, Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) and Child's behaviour questionnaire (CBQ) was conducted among 400 mothers of children bearing age 3 to 11 years living in urban slums. Correlation of HFIAS and CBQ scores were measured by Spearman's correlation coefficient. Generalized linear regression analysis was performed to determine relationship between scores of food insecurity and child behavior. Results Every two out of three households were found food insecure. 70% of households were worried for shortage of food in past month. Almost all households endured insufficient quality (95%) while 84.2% households did not have sufficient quantity of food in past month. Overall 70% mothers reported behavioral problems in their children; of which solitary and aggressiveness were the most common behavioral problems. Subsequent misbehavior reported were: avoiding going to school, stressed, impetuous, fearful, somatic complaints, bullied and not confident. Correlation between food insecurity and child misbehavior was significantly positive. One additional household with food insecurity increased 26.7% behavioral problems in children in urban slums. Conclusions Food insecurity in slum areas of Karachi is rampant. Behavioral problems in children living in areas with food insecurity are at subsequent high risk. Strategies must be derived for related interventions to reduce these psycho-social problems in addition to socioeconomic problems. Funding Sources No funding was available for the research. Authors conduction self research.

Oncology nursing training: A blended teaching approach in resource-limited countries.

2020 ◽  
Vol 38 (15_suppl) ◽  
pp. e19189-e19189
Author(s):  
Mehrunnissa Taj ◽  
Benish Lalani ◽  
Nurani Madhani ◽  
Cornelia Ouma ◽  
Lydia Njumwa ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Patient Outcomes ◽  
Nursing Staff ◽  
Clinical Skills ◽  
Skills Training ◽  
Teaching Approach ◽  
Oncology Nursing ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Chemotherapy Administration ◽  
Resource Limited ◽  
Blended Teaching

e19189 Background: Although cancer is a global health concern, resource-limited countries (RLCs) experience higher mortality and morbidity compared with high-income countries. Knowledge gaps and inadequate training are some of the many barriers to safe and effective patient care in RLCs. Oncology nursing as a subspecialty does not readily exist in many RLCs, such as Kenya and Tanzania; many of the nursing staff learn essential clinical skills on the job with no structured training. Advanced practitioners are critical in identifying knowledge deficits and elevating oncology nurses’ clinical skills for positive patient outcomes. Methods: We used a blended teaching approach (a combination of computer-led sessions and face-to-face interactions) to impart cancer education to the nursing staff working in the oncology departments at four hospitals in Kenya and Tanzania. The training focused on cancer biology, epidemiology, pharmacology, safe chemotherapy administration, side effect management, and patient education. Computer-based modules and face-to-face skills training on chemotherapy administration were conducted over a four-month period. Pre- and post-assessments were held for each training session, and clinical skills were evaluated in-person at the completion of the course. Finally, a comprehensive post-assessment was conducted immediately after the training, and again at 3- and 6-month intervals to evaluate knowledge gain and retention over time. Results: Of 21 participants across four sites, the mean scores for the first pre- and post-test were 71.43% and 90.48%, respectively ( p = .01), showing a significant improvement in knowledge. The post-tests after course completion and again at the 6-month interval showed mean values of 88.28% and 89.30%, respectively ( p = .36), indicating a sustained effect of our intervention and no diminution of knowledge at 6 months. The initial face-to-face skills’ training was followed by 3- and 6-month sessions via video chat. At the final 12-month face-to-face visit, we confirmed recommended policy and clinical practice changes in effect and developed a plan for sustainability measures. Conclusions: Blended teaching is an effective tool in improving knowledge, skills, and self-efficacy for clinicians practicing in RLCs. Advanced oncology practitioners can play an important role in assessing, designing, and implementing similar training courses in other areas of oncology, such as survivorship, and palliative care. The corresponding improvement in knowledge and skillsets could ultimately improve patient outcomes .

Reframing “building back better” for post-disaster housing design: a community perspective

2016 ◽  
Vol 7 (4) ◽  
pp. 344-360 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yenny Rahmayati
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Methodology ◽  
Way Of Life ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Housing Design ◽  
Disaster Survivors ◽  
Common Concept ◽  
The Common ◽  
Housing Reconstruction ◽  
Post Disaster

Purpose This study aims to reframe the common concept of post-disaster reconstruction “building back better”, especially in the context of post-disaster housing design. Design/methodology/approach An Aceh post-tsunami housing reconstruction project is used as a case study with qualitative methodology through in-depth interviews of selected respondents. Findings The study findings have shown that the term “building back better” is not a familiar term for housing recipients. Whichever different personal background post-disaster survivors come from, whether they are housewife, civil servant, fisherman, university student, businessman or a professional, none have ever heard this phrase. All found it hard to understand the term. This study argues that the “building back better” concept is good in policy but not working in practice. As a result, housing recipients not only were dissatisfied with their new houses but also found that the new housing configurations profoundly altered their traditional way of life. In light of these findings, the paper argues that the concept of “building back better” needs to be reframed to take account of the cultural individual and communal needs and wants of post-disaster survivors. Research limitations/implications This study discusses only one aspect of post-disaster reconstruction that is the design of housing reconstruction. Practical implications Results from this study provide a practical contribution for reconstruction actors especially designers, architects and planners. It helps them to reconsider the common concepts they have used for post-disaster reconstruction processes particularly in designing housing reconstruction projects. Originality/value This study focuses on the question of how tsunami survivors in Aceh reacted to the design of their new post-tsunami houses and what they had done themselves to make their homes a better and nicer place to live within their own cultural needs. This study also sought to understand what motivated the opinions the respondents had about the design of housing reconstruction after the tsunami in Aceh generally. In addition, the study investigated whether survivors knew the phrase and the credo of “building back better” in a post-disaster context.

scholarly journals Use of Expressed Breastmilk at Two Weeks Postpartum Is Associated With Early Cessation and Non-exclusive Breastmilk Feeding for Six Months in a Cohort of Vulnerable Women

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. 786-786
Author(s):  
Alison Mildon ◽  
Jane Francis ◽  
Stacia Stewart ◽  
Bronwyn Underhill ◽  
Yi Man Ng ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Child Nutrition ◽  
Demographic Data ◽  
Canadian Community Health Survey ◽  
Household Food Insecurity ◽  
Prenatal Nutrition ◽  
Funding Sources ◽  
Household Food ◽  
Early Postpartum ◽  
Vulnerable Families

Abstract Objectives Pumping and feeding expressed breastmilk (EBM) in the early postpartum period are common but may not support longer-term breastfeeding outcomes. Our objectives were to examine in a cohort of vulnerable mothers of term-born infants: i) the prevalence of EBM feeding; and ii) associations between EBM use at two weeks and any and exclusive breastmilk feeding over the first six months postpartum. Methods We pooled data from two studies conducted with participants (n = 316) at three Toronto sites implementing the Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program, an initiative targeting vulnerable families. Socio-demographic data were collected prenatally or at two weeks postpartum. Household food insecurity was assessed at six months using the Canadian Community Health Survey module. A standardized questionnaire was administered prospectively at two weeks and two, four and six months postpartum to collect data on infant feeding practices in the previous two weeks. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were performed. Results The mean age of participants was 32 years, 91% were born outside Canada and 38% had lived in Canada less than three years. Nearly half (44%) reported household food insecurity. All participants initiated breastfeeding and 34% reported EBM use at two weeks postpartum. This declined to 24% at two months, 14% at four months and 8% at six months postpartum. Over the six-month follow-up period, 20% discontinued any breastmilk feeding and only 16% practiced exclusive breastmilk feeding. In adjusted models, EBM use at two weeks was associated with breastmilk feeding cessation (OR 2.75; 95% CI: 1.4–5.2) and non-exclusive breastmilk feeding for six months postpartum (OR 4.32; 95% CI 1.8–10.5). Conclusions EBM use in the first two weeks was a predictor of early cessation and non-exclusive breastmilk feeding for six months postpartum in our cohort of vulnerable women living in an urban Canadian context and accessing prenatal nutrition programs. Further research is needed to determine whether early EBM use is a marker for breastfeeding difficulties or undermines longer-term breastfeeding outcomes. Funding Sources Canadian Institutes of Health Research; The Sprott Foundation: Joannah and Brian Lawson Centre for Child Nutrition.

scholarly journals Results of a Nutrition Incentive Program Within a Bi-State Region: A Mixed-Method Evaluation

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. 191-191
Author(s):  
Cheryl Gibson ◽  
Heather Valentine ◽  
Rose-Bertine Mercier ◽  
Susan Harvey ◽  
Lauren Landfried ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Grocery Store ◽  
Farmers Markets ◽  
Grocery Stores ◽  
Implementation Barriers ◽  
Assistance Program ◽  
Incentive Program ◽  
Funding Sources ◽  
Nutrition Assistance ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Objectives To conduct a process and impact evaluation of Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB) Heartland, a nutrition incentive program, to facilitate program delivery and sustainability at farmers markets and grocery stores, and to examine the impact on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) customers. Methods Across 4 years, we employed a mixed methods approach, including surveys with customers (n = 678) and vendors (n = 223), and interviews with market managers (n = 52) and grocery store employees (n = 38). Study samples were obtained using a geographically-stratified, probability-proportional-to-size sampling plan. Customer surveys included demographic, social, dietary and health-related variables. Survey respondents included SNAP customers who had used DUFB (n = 382) and those who had not (n = 296). Results DUFB customers were primarily female (81%) and white (48%), with a mean age of 46 ± 15 years. Non-DUFB users had similar characteristics. Of DUFB users, 56% indicated food insecurity issues and 27% rated their general health as fair to poor. Most learned of DUFB on-site. DUFB customers reported being able to afford more produce (98%), consuming a greater variety of produce (59%), and reducing their intake of unhealthy foods (45%). Importantly, 93% of DUFB users indicated the presence of the program influenced their decision to shop at the site. Among non-DUFB users, most were unaware of the program but 98% indicated they were likely to participate next time they shopped. Grocery store cashiers reported DUFB implementation was easy and it did not add time to complete a sales transaction. Store directors felt DUFB brought about a greater focus on locally grown produce and all expressed a desire to continue the program. Market managers stated participation in DUFB increased produce sales, and the number and diversity of customers. Market vendors viewed DUFB as beneficial, stating it resulted in a new customer base and increased produce sales. Conclusions Results were instrumental in identifying successes and challenges faced by locations that were implementing the DUFB program. DUFB was well accepted with few implementation barriers noted. However, many SNAP users were not aware of the nutrition incentive program. Findings will be used to refine materials and develop strategies to extend program reach. Funding Sources USDA Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive Program.

Consequences of post-disaster policies and relocation approaches: two communities from rural China

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Yong Chen ◽  
Lulu He ◽  
Dan Zhou
Keyword(s):  
Rural Areas ◽  
Disaster Recovery ◽  
Rural China ◽  
Critical Role ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Displaced People ◽  
Questionnaire Surveys ◽  
Post Disaster

PurposePost-disaster population resettlement is a complicated process, during which the restoration of livelihood and lifestyle plays a critical role in achieving a successful resettlement outcome. This paper attempts to examine how recovery policies and relocation approaches influence people's livelihood recovery and perception of wellbeing. It specifically investigates the role of farmland in producing a livelihood and maintaining a rural lifestyle among displaced people.Design/methodology/approachThrough face-to-face questionnaire surveys and in-depth interviews with rural residents displaced from their villages after the Wenchuan earthquake in Sichuan, China, this study presents both quantitative and qualitative evidence to investigate how post-disaster policies and particularly the availability of farmland influence people's recovery and their satisfaction with the post-resettlement life.FindingsData suggest that availability of farmland, in spite of the size, makes big differences in post-disaster recovery because farmland provides resettled people with not only a livelihood to secure basic living but also a guarantee to maintain a rural lifestyle.Research limitations/implicationsMore samples are needed for analyzing factors that significantly influence disaster-displaced farmers' recovery and wellbeing post resettlement.Practical implicationsThis study can be used as an important reference for making plans for post-disaster recovery and population resettlement programs in other disaster-prone countries across the world.Originality/valueLand-based relocation is proposed as a desirable approach to addressing challenges of livelihood restoration amongst the resettled population in rural areas of developing countries.

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