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Research Brief| Volume 46, ISSUE 3, P209-214, May 2014

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Prevalence and Correlates of Food Insecurity Among Students Attending a Midsize Rural University in Oregon

Published:January 09, 2014DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jneb.2013.10.007

      Abstract

      Objective

      To examine the prevalence and identify correlates of food insecurity among students attending a rural university in Oregon.

      Methods

      Cross-sectional nonprobability survey of 354 students attending a midsize rural university in Oregon during May, 2011. The main outcome was food insecurity measured using the US Department of Agriculture Household Food Security Survey Module: 6-Item Short Form. Socioeconomic and demographic variables were included in multivariate logistic regression models.

      Results

      Over half of students (59%) were food insecure at some point during the previous year. Having fair/poor health (odds ratio [OR], 2.08; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.07–4.63), being employed (OR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.04–2.88), and having an income < $15,000/y (OR, 2.23; 95% CI, 1.07–4.63) were associated with food insecurity. In turn, good academic performance (grade point average of ≥ 3.1) was inversely associated with food insecurity.

      Conclusions

      Food insecurity seems to be a significant issue for college students. It is necessary to expand research on different campus settings and further strengthen support systems to increase access to nutritious foods for this population.

      Key Words

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