Food Insecurity and Anaemia Among a Tertiary Student Cohort: A One‐Centre Cross‐Sectional Study in Ghana
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Background Food insecurity (FI) is a significant global issue impacting well‐being and may affect academic performance among students. In Ghana, inflation‐induced high food prices and diminished purchasing power may exacerbate anaemia and FI among vulnerable populations. Aim This study assessed the prevalence of FI and its relationship with anaemia among university students. Materials and Methods This one‐centre cross‐sectional study used the validated food security questionnaires to assess FI among 385 full‐time undergraduate and postgraduate students. Additionally, haemoglobin level was estimated with the Hemocue Hb 201+ analyser to determine anaemia. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to evaluate relationships between FI and anaemia and other sociodemographic variables. Results Respectively, 78.2% (301/385) and 67.5% (260/385) of the participants were FI on campus or at home. Relatedly, 63.7% (245/385) of the students were FI at both home and on campus; 14.5% were food secure at home but became FI on campus, whereas 3.9% were food secure on campus but became FI at home. Additionally, 27.8% (95% CI: 0.234–0.326) of participants were anaemic with significant disproportionate female representation (43.0% vs. 10.1% males, p < 0.001). Whereas male gender (78.1% vs. 58.5% females; p < 0.001), household income < 1000 GHS ( p < 0.001) and basic parental education ( p = 0.004) were significantly associated with FI at home, being a male ( p = 0.003) or household income < 1000 GHS was significantly associated with FI on campus. Multivariate logistics analysis identified being a female as a significant risk factor of anaemia (aOR = 7.051, 95% CI: 3.818–13.023, p < 0.001); age groups, study type, regional differences, number of siblings, dependents, funding source, accommodation type and FI on campus did not show statistically significant associations. Conclusion FI and anaemia are prevalent public health issues faced by the tertiary student cohort; intentional social intervention strategies are needed to address anaemia and improve food access.
Source: Anemia
DOI: 10.1155/anem/1085315
Institution: University of Cape Coast
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,100
OpenAlex ID: W7225116453