Prevalence and associated factors of food insecurity during COVID-19 pandemic in Bangkok, Thailand : a cross-sectional study

Abstract

The prevalence of food insecurity (FI) in Thailand has fluctuated throughout time. The COVID-19 pandemic had a substantial impact on Thailand's food system and the factors that contribute to food insecurity differ greatly across developed and developing countries. Consequently, this study may contribute as a step in achieving the SDGs by 2030. The aim was to estimate the prevalence and associated factors of food insecurity during COVID-19 pandemic among Bangkokian. A cross-sectional study was conducted over 440 Bangkokians and data were collected through self-administrated. The questionnaire included the general characteristics, associated factors and the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES) in the total of eight questions. Data were analyzed using univariate, bivariate (chi-square), and multivariate (logistic regression). The majority of the participants were females, aged between 46-55 years old, single, living with family, has no child, graduated with bachelor’s degree, employed, earning more than 20,000 Baht per month, and not the head of the family. The study revealed that as much as 39.4% of all participants experienced food insecurity due to the impact of COVID-19 pandemic (mild 25.5%, moderate 8%, and severe 5.9%). Food insecurity was significantly associated with age, living with a disabled person, house ownership status and used additional supports. Those aged 36-45 and 46-55 are 0.29 and 0.14 times less likely to experience food insecurity than those younger in age. However, food insecurity increased 3.4 times when households comprised a disabled person (OR=3.369; P=0.003), increased 2.7 times as a house renter (OR=2.738, P=0.005), increased 2 times when used additional food aids support (OR=2.055, P=0.001). The results indicated that almost half of the participants had been experiencing food insecurity, meaning that the pandemic threatens food security. Therefore, additional research and the relevant stakeholders should focus on food assistance intervention and policy to protect young adults and disabled households from food insecurity.