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Despite Food Insecurity, University Students Remain Committed to Achieving Their Academic Goals: Cross-Sectional Single-Center Study in Saudi Arabia

Author

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  • Rawan K. Kahtan

    (Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Sciences and Design, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia)

  • Mahitab A. Hanbazaza

    (Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Sciences and Design, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia)

Abstract

Food insecurity is a pressing global concern affecting individuals across all age groups. Despite its widespread impact, a notable gap remains in the literature, particularly in reference to the literature concerning university students. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of food insecurity and examine its associated factors, including mental and general health and academic performance, among university students in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. A total of 421 students from King Abdulaziz University participated in this study, completing a questionnaire that measured food insecurity, academic performance, and mental and general health. About 40% of the respondents experienced some level of food insecurity, which was categorized as mild (20.4%), moderate (13.0%), or severe (5.6%). Significant associations were observed between food insecurity and monthly household income ( p < 0.001) and general health ( p < 0.005), respectively. However, the associations were weaker between food insecurity and perceived stress ( p < 0.066) and the impact of COVID-19. Notably, no significant correlation was found between food security and socio-demographic characteristics or academic performance. This study highlights the prevalence of food insecurity among university students in Saudi Arabia and emphasizes the need for further research to gain a better understanding of its complexities. Such insights can empower universities and policymakers to implement targeted interventions, thereby enhancing the learning experience and future success of university students.

Suggested Citation

  • Rawan K. Kahtan & Mahitab A. Hanbazaza, 2024. "Despite Food Insecurity, University Students Remain Committed to Achieving Their Academic Goals: Cross-Sectional Single-Center Study in Saudi Arabia," Societies, MDPI, vol. 14(7), pages 1-12, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsoctx:v:14:y:2024:i:7:p:112-:d:1429147
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Gregory, Christian A. & Coleman-Jensen, Alisha, 2017. "Food Insecurity, Chronic Disease, and Health Among Working-Age Adults," Economic Research Report 261813, United States Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service.
    2. Bebiana Marques & Jorge Azevedo & Isilda Rodrigues & Conceição Rainho & Carla Gonçalves, 2022. "Food Insecurity Levels among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study," Societies, MDPI, vol. 12(6), pages 1-11, November.
    3. Nor Syaza Sofiah Ahmad & Norhasmah Sulaiman & Mohamad Fazli Sabri, 2021. "Food Insecurity: Is It a Threat to University Students’ Well-Being and Success?," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(11), pages 1-11, May.
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    1. Atef M. Ghaleb & Mokhtar Ali Amrani & Raad Abdo M. Al Selwi & Hanaa A. Hebah & Mogeeb A. Saeed & Sobhi Mejjaouli, 2024. "Socioeconomic Status as a Predictor of the Academic Achievement of Engineering Students in Taiz State, Yemen," Societies, MDPI, vol. 14(12), pages 1-20, November.

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