ORCID Profile
0000-0002-0498-3572
Current Organisation
Deakin University
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Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 05-2021
Abstract: Food insecurity is an important contributor to health and a factor in both underweight and malnutrition, and overweight and obesity. Countries where both undernutrition and overweight and obesity coexist are said to be experiencing a double burden of malnutrition. India is one ex le of a country experiencing this double burden. Women have been found to experience the negative impacts of food insecurity and obesity, however, the reasons that women experience the impact of malnutrition more so than men are complex and are under-researched. This current research employed a mixed methods approach to begin to fill this gap by exploring the dietary intake, anthropometric characteristics, and food security status of rural Indian women. In total, 78 household were surveyed. The average waist measurement, waist to hip ratio, and BMI were all above WHO recommendations, with two thirds of participants categorized as obese. Contributing to these findings was a very limited diet, high in energy, and low in protein and iron. The findings of this research suggest that the rural Indian women in this study have a lack of diet ersity and may be at risk of a range of non-communicable diseases.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 26-05-2020
Abstract: Background: Despite significant growth and change in India over the past two decades, some public health indicators have failed to keep pace. One such indicator is food insecurity. India is home to the largest number of people experiencing hunger and food insecurity. Food security is described as “a situation that exists when all people, at all times, have physical, social and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life”. While there has been considerable research investigating the role of crop yields, policy interventions, and food production in alleviating food insecurity in India, there is insufficient research investigating the social and cultural influences of food insecurity, including the role of women. The primary aim of this research is to investigate the experience of food insecurity among women in India. The objectives of this research are (1) to determine the role of women in food production and its contribution to household food security (2) to examine the gender roles within households and the decision-making processes that influence food security, and (3) to investigate household nutritional status and food insecurity experience. Methods: Participants will include women who live in a village in Punjab, India. Interviews with 100 households, drawn from a convenience s le will be conducted. Interviews will be conducted in Punjabi with simultaneous English translation, and will include: food related experiences, anthropometric measurements (weight, height, waist, and hip) and dietary assessment (24-h diet recall, two non-consecutive days), dwelling facilities, agriculture related information, including household agriculture activities undertaken, food security status (via the United States Department of Agriculture Household Food Security Scale Measurement), and demographic information. Discussion: This study aims to investigate a range of determinants of food insecurity among a rural population. It will allow for the identification of some of the components of household food insecurity among women in India and will go part of the way to understanding how and why India continues to experience food and nutritional insecurity despite growth and progress in a range of other indicators.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 04-07-2019
DOI: 10.2196/11926
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 07-08-2018
Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to explore the experiences of asylum seekers who were entitled to use a foodbank but who had ceased attending the service, to understand why they were not using the charity, and to investigate their food-related experiences. This study employed a mixed-method approach utilising telephone interviews. Interviews were conducted with 70 asylum seekers in Melbourne, Australia, between September 2015 and February 2016. Interviews explored food-related settlement experiences, food insecurity and experiences of hunger. Two-thirds of participants were identified as experiencing food insecurity. Despite food and financial insecurity, participants were not using the foodbank as frequently as they were entitled as: the food was not culturally or religiously appropriate to them asylum seekers with income felt uncomfortable taking food from others who were perceived to be in greater need or because they were experiencing transport barriers. Participants also experienced a range of physical and mental health concerns. Ensuring asylum seekers have access to culturally appropriate foods and services is essential. However, given the ersity in foodbank membership, it may not be feasible to provide all of the desired foods at no cost instead, increased access to culturally appropriate foods may be achieved through a subsidy programme. Novel or alternative approaches to community engagement and food distribution may be needed to increase food security and to decrease hunger in this group.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 18-10-2018
Abstract: Increasing smartphones access has allowed for increasing development and use of smart phone applications (apps). Mobile health interventions have previously relied on voice or text-based short message services (SMS), however, the increasing availability and ease of use of apps has allowed for significant growth of smartphone apps that can be used for health behaviour change. This review considers the current body of knowledge relating to the evaluation of apps for health behaviour change. The aim of this review is to investigate approaches to the evaluation of health apps to identify any current best practice approaches. A systematic review was conducted. Data were collected and analysed in September 2016. Thirty-eight articles were identified and have been included in this review. Articles were published between 2011– 2016, and 36 were reviews or evaluations of apps related to one or more health conditions, the remaining two reported on an investigation of the usability of health apps. Studies investigated apps relating to the following areas: alcohol, asthma, breastfeeding, cancer, depression, diabetes, general health and fitness, headaches, heart disease, HIV, hypertension, iron deficiency/anaemia, low vision, mindfulness, obesity, pain, physical activity, smoking, weight management and women’s health. In order to harness the potential of mobile health apps for behaviour change and health, we need better ways to assess the quality and effectiveness of apps. This review is unable to suggest a single best practice approach to evaluate mobile health apps. Few measures identified in this review included sufficient information or evaluation, leading to potentially incomplete and inaccurate information for consumers seeking the best app for their situation. This is further complicated by a lack of regulation in health promotion generally.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-2016
DOI: 10.1111/AJPY.12147
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-10-2023
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 24-05-2018
Abstract: sing mobile phone apps to promote behavior change is becoming increasingly common. However, there is no clear way to rate apps against their behavior change potential. his study aimed to develop a reliable, theory-based scale that can be used to assess the behavior change potential of smartphone apps. systematic review of all studies purporting to investigate app’s behavior change potential was conducted. All scales and measures from the identified studies were collected to create an item pool. From this item pool, 3 health promotion exerts created the App Behavior Change Scale (ABACUS). To test the scale, 70 physical activity apps were rated to provide information on reliability. he systematic review returned 593 papers, the abstracts and titles of all were reviewed, with the full text of 77 papers reviewed 50 papers met the inclusion criteria. From these 50 papers, 1333 questions were identified. Removing duplicates and unnecessary questions left 130 in idual questions, which were then refined into the 21-item scale. The ABACUS demonstrates high percentage agreement among reviewers (over 80%), with 3 questions scoring a Krippendorff alpha that would indicate agreement and a further 7 came close with alphas .5. The scale overall reported high interrater reliability (2-way mixed interclass coefficient=.92, 95% CI 0.81-0.97) and high internal consistency (Cronbach alpha=.93). he ABACUS is a reliable tool that can be used to determine the behavior change potential of apps. This instrument fills a gap by allowing the evaluation of a large number of apps to be standardized across a range of health categories.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-12-2023
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.681
Abstract: A healthy diet is particularly important during childhood. Research suggests that more than 95% of Australian primary school aged children do not eat a diet consistent with the Australian Dietary Guidelines, putting them at risk of poor health. Interventions to improve the quality of children's lunchboxes may help address this issue. However, there is limited understanding of the factors impacting lunchbox preparation. This study explored the experiences of 10 mothers of Victorian primary school students. Mothers took part in semi‐structured interviews exploring their views on lunchbox preparation and food choices. The study used a Constructivist Grounded Theory methodology and data were analysed using an inductive, thematic approach. Analysis of the interviews yielded four main themes. (i) Mothers experienced a range of non‐nutritional barriers that impacted the food choices they made for their children. (ii) Children's preferences influenced parental food choices. (iii) Mothers experienced and/or perceived judgement about the food choices they make for their children. And (iv) Mothers identified a lack of support and information from schools about what was appropriate for school lunch. Findings of this study indicate that mothers are concerned with balancing nutrition and child preferences within the broader context of guidelines, perceived or real judgement and income constraints. The school environment may be an ideal setting to promote healthy eating but support for parents is needed. This is the first study in Victoria exploring mothers' perspectives on lunchbox preparation and provides initial information on which future research can build.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 07-2011
Abstract: In April 2009 a boat (named the ‘SIEV 36’ by the Australian Navy) carrying 49 asylum seekers exploded off the north coast of Australia. Media and public debate about Australia’s responsibility to in iduals seeking asylum by boat was instantaneous. This paper investigates the media representation of the ‘SIEV 36’ incident and the public responses to media reports through online news fora. We examined three key questions: 1) Does the media reporting refer back to and support previous policies of the Howard Government? 2) Does the press and public discourse portray asylum arrivals by boat as a risk to Australian society? 3) Are journalists following and applying industry guidelines about the reporting of asylum seeker issues? Our results show that while there is an attempt to provide a balanced account of the issue, there is variation in the degree to which different types of reports follow industry guidelines about the reporting of issues relating to asylum seekers and the use of ‘appropriate’ language.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 03-09-2019
Abstract: The Public Distribution System (PDS) of India plays a crucial role in reducing food insecurity by acting as a safety net by distributing essentials at a subsidised rate. While the PDS forms a cornerstone of government food and nutrition policy, India continues to be home to a large population of hungry and malnourished people. This review seeks to explore the functioning and efficiency of the PDS in achieving food and nutritional security in India. A comprehensive and systematic search using the key terms “food insecurity” OR “food security” AND “Public Distribution System” OR “PDS” OR “TPDS” AND “India” identified 23 articles which met the inclusion criteria. This review draws attention to the lack of published literature in areas of PDS and food security in India. The findings of the review emphasise the role of PDS in tackling hunger and malnutrition while highlighting its limited role in improving food security and childhood mortality due to operational inefficiencies. The PDS has the potential to act as a solution to food insecurity in India if the operational inefficiencies and environmental footprints are addressed by adequate policy reforms.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 09-02-2023
DOI: 10.1017/S1368980023000265
Abstract: The aim of this project is to review the products and recipes contained within popular subscription meal kits to determine if they are suitable for wider use among people who are food insecure. Across the 6-week period, weekly meal kits from both HelloFresh and Markey Spoon were purchased, resulting in thirty-six in idual meals that were prepared and assessed. Meals were assessed based on the content included in the meal kit compared with the recipe card and the nutrition panel, the costs of the in idual foods if purchased at one of two major supermarkets and the ease of preparation. Australia. Households were comprised of two, 2-person households who were provided with 2 meals each week, and two, single-person households who were provided with one meal each week. The findings of this research suggest that while the meal kits are convenient and, in general, the recipes are easy to follow, and the meals would be made again, the high levels of salt and fat may preclude these kits from regular inclusion in a healthy diet. The meal kits were also found to be more costly than the same ingredients if purchased from a major supermarket. However, the convenience of having most of the foods needed to prepare a full meal with little to no wastage may counterbalance this cost. Meal kits may be a useful component of a healthy diet, that can increase meals prepared and consumed in the home, and thanks to the clear instructions and pre-portioned ingredients, may reduce stress related to food preparation.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 16-11-2022
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 09-06-2022
DOI: 10.3390/NU14122407
Abstract: With a global focus on improving maternal and child nutrition through the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, it is important to understand food insecurity in pregnant women and families with young children, as food insecurity at these life stages can have ongoing negative health consequences. However, factors that influence food insecurity among this population group are not well understood. This scoping review investigates the factors that influence food insecurity among pregnant women and households with young children aged 0–6 years living in high-income countries. A scoping literature review was conducted using four electronic databases. The search combined terms relevant to: food security, determinants, pregnancy and family and high-income countries. Only full text and English language articles were included. The search identified 657 titles and abstracts 29 articles were included in the review. A majority (70%) of the studies were conducted in the United States and were mostly either cross-sectional or secondary data analysis of existing population data. Factors associated with food insecurity were identified and grouped into 13 constructs. These included social, economic and health risk factors, food access and utilization factors and health and dietary outcomes. This scoping review identifies the factors associated with food insecurity among pregnant women and families with young children that could be used to better measure and understand food insecurity, which could assist in developing program and policy responses. This review also highlights the lack of literature from high-income countries outside the US.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-05-2022
DOI: 10.1007/S13668-022-00418-Z
Abstract: Food insecurity can have a negative health impact for women during pregnancy and the postpartum period however, there are a range of barriers to meeting nutritional guidelines during pregnancy. Food insecurity is associated with an increased risk of pregnancy complications and mental and physical health outcomes. This review aims to provide insight into programmes and interventions which have targeted food insecurity in pregnant and early postpartum women. The central research question for this review is as follows: What programmes and interventions have sought to address food insecurity among pregnant and postpartum women? A systematic search of five electronic databases including Medline, CINAHL, Global Health, Embase, and Cochrane was undertaken on August 2021. Key thematic areas searched were food insecurity, pregnancy, nutritional outcomes, and interventions or programmes. Only studies that were published since 2000 in English were considered. Eleven studies were included in this review. Studies employed a range of methods and outcomes measures. They were conducted in mostly low- and middle-income countries, and in general, focused on nutritional supplementation, with some studies also incorporating nutrition education or counselling. The findings of this review suggest that while there are a range of possible interventions that seek to address food insecurity and hunger among pregnant and postpartum women, the limited number of robust evaluations or long-term interventions mean that evidence for any one intervention type is limited. Furthermore, the programmes and interventions that do exist are generally embedded within a single context or structure, and as such, may not be able to be widely implemented. ( Prospero Registration CRD42022245787)
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2015
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 18-07-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-12-2015
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12363
Abstract: To understand health service access and needs of people who use performance and image enhancing drugs (PIED) in regional Queensland. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 people (n = 19 men) who reported the use of a range of PIEDs, including anabolic-androgenic steroids, human chorionic gonadotropin, growth hormone, clenbuterol, tamoxifen, insulin and peptides. Participants reported accessing a range of services, including needle and syringe programs and pharmacies, for sterile injecting equipment. While PIEDs users attributed some stigma to needle and syringe programs, they were seen as an important service for injecting equipment. Participants reported receiving either positive care from health-care providers, such as general practitioners (GP), or having negative experiences due to the stigma attached with PIED use. Few participants reported disclosing their PIED use to their GP not only because of the concerns that their GP would no longer see them but also because they felt their GP was not knowledgeable about these substances. Participants in the study reported no difficulty in accessing health services based on living in a regional area, with their concern focused more upon how they were viewed and treated by service staff. [Dunn M, Henshaw R, Mckay F. H. Do performance and image enhancing drug users in regional Queensland experience difficulty accessing health services? Drug Alcohol Rev 2016 :377-382].
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12085
Abstract: Needle and syringe programs (NSP), which provide sterile injecting equipment, are a cornerstone of Australia's drug harm reduction strategy and assist in reducing the spread of blood-borne virus infections, such as HIV and hepatitis C, among people who inject drugs. Some reports suggest that steroid users are an increasing proportion of clientele at NSPs. In this research, we investigate the experience of NSP workers who come into contact with people who use steroids and other performance- and image-enhancing drugs (PIED). Thirteen NSP workers were recruited using purposive s ling strategies. Participants were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and coded for themes. There are three key findings of this study. Firstly, NSP workers do not feel well informed about the substances that PIED users are injecting. Secondly, they were unsure what equipment PIED users required. Thirdly, PIED users were perceived to differ from other client groups, and these differences impacted upon the level of rapport staff could build with this group. PIED users pose unique challenges for NSP workers compared with other NSP client groups. The PIEDs used and the way in which they are used are substantially different compared with other NSP clients, and there appears to be a lack of knowledge within the workforce about these substances. This study highlights the need to engage in workforce training, but also the need to more effectively engage with PIED users in relation to effective harm reduction strategies.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 06-02-2019
Abstract: The number of Australians seeking food aid has increased in recent years however, the current variability in the measurement of food insecurity means that the prevalence and severity of food insecurity in Australia is likely underreported. This is compounded by infrequent national health surveys that measure food insecurity, resulting in outdated population-level food insecurity data. This review sought to investigate the breadth of food insecurity research conducted in Australia to evaluate how this construct is being measured. A systematic review was conducted to collate the available Australian research. Fifty-seven publications were reviewed. Twenty-two used a single-item measure to examine food security status 11 used the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM) two used the Radimer/Cornell instrument one used the Household Food and Nutrition Security Survey (HFNSS) while the remainder used a less rigorous or unidentified method. A wide range in prevalence and severity of food insecurity in the community was reported food insecurity ranged from 2% to 90%, depending on the measurement tool and population under investigation. Based on the findings of this review, the authors suggest that there needs to be greater consistency in measuring food insecurity, and that work is needed to create a measure of food insecurity tailored for the Australian context. Such a tool will allow researchers to gain a clear understanding of the prevalence of food insecurity in Australia to create better policy and practice responses.
Publisher: Bristol University Press
Date: 06-2022
DOI: 10.1332/175982721X16461506229420
Abstract: An increasing number of Australians are experiencing food insecurity due to rising costs of living and stagnant wage and welfare growth, as a result an increasing number of people are reliant on charity to meet their food needs. This research employs qualitative methods to explore the experiences of people who are reliant on emergency and community food assistance. The two main findings of this study are that people relying on charity often experience humiliation and embarrassment when accessing these services, and that when accessing theses services, they feel both judged and judgemental of others. Findings of this study highlight some of the challenges faced by people experiencing food insecurity and hunger.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-07-2017
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 29-04-2023
Abstract: Food insecurity is an important determinant of health and should be identified by clinicians during routine reproductive healthcare. The procedures used in reproductive healthcare settings to identify people experiencing food insecurity have not been fully researched. The objective of this study was to synthesize evidence from published studies that describe the procedures implemented by clinicians in healthcare settings to identify food insecurity in pregnant women, or women of reproductive age (15 years–49 years). Four databases were searched in April 2022 to identify studies that met the eligibility criteria. Studies that used tools that were both validated or newly developed were considered, as were studies that incorporated food insecurity screening as part of a multidomain screening tool. Two authors completed the screening, data extraction, and quality assessment independently. There were 1075 studies identified after screening, 7 studies were included in the narrative synthesis, including studies relating to women who were pregnant or in the postpartum period none of the included studies related to women in the preconception stage. Four screening tools were identified: 2- and 6-item tools specifically focused on food insecurity, a 58-item multidomain tool incorporating 4 food insecurity items, and a modified version of the 2-item tool. Methods of implementing screening varied across studies. Three described subsequent processes that supported food-insecure patients once identified. Few published studies have investigated optimal screening tools and their implementation within reproductive healthcare settings to address food insecurity for this priority population group. Further research is required to determine: the optimal tool, preferable screening methods from the perspectives of both patients and clinicians, and potential strategies for implementation in countries outside of the United States. An additional evidence gap remains about referral pathways and appropriate supports for this population once food insecurity is identified. PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022319687.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-12-2019
DOI: 10.1111/SPOL.12570
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 20-06-2020
DOI: 10.1111/HSC.13062
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-02-2014
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-06-2021
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 24-08-2022
Abstract: Despite increasing rates of food insecurity in high income countries, food insecurity and its related factors are inconsistently and inadequately assessed, especially among households with young children (0–6 years) and pregnant women. To fill this gap, researchers from the U.S. and Australia collaborated to develop a comprehensive household food security tool that includes the known determinants and outcomes of food insecurity among parents of young children and pregnant women. A five-stage mixed methods approach, including a scoping literature review, key informant interviews, establishing key measurement constructs, identifying items and scales to include, and conducting cognitive interviews, was taken to iteratively develop this new comprehensive tool. The resulting 78-item tool includes the four dimensions of food security (access, availability, utilization, and stability) along with known risk factors (economic, health, and social) and outcomes (mental and physical health and diet quality). The aim of this novel tool is to comprehensively characterize and assess the severity of determinants and outcomes of food insecurity experienced by households with young children and pregnant women.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 25-01-2019
DOI: 10.2196/11130
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-03-2015
Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing
Date: 08-06-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-02-2017
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 29-09-2018
Abstract: The value of incorporating arts-based approaches into health promotion programs has long been recognized as useful in affecting change. Such approaches have been used in many schools across Australia and have been found to promote general well-being and mental health. Despite these positive findings, few programs have used or evaluated an integrated arts-based approach to achieve health and well-being goals. This article presents the findings of an evaluation of an integrated arts-based program focused on creativity and improving well-being in students. The findings of this evaluation suggest that students who took part in the program were more interested in art and music at the end of the program and had gained an overall increase in awareness and mindfulness and a positivity toward leisure activities. This evaluation provides some evidence to suggest that this type of program is a promising way to promote well-being in schools.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 19-07-2018
DOI: 10.1111/HSC.12593
Abstract: People seeking asylum in high-income countries are vulnerable to food insecurity due to limited opportunities for social and economic participation. Given this vulnerability, nongovernment organisations are attempting to improve food security outcomes through targeted programmes. This study explored the role of a subsidised mobile fresh fruit and vegetable market (the Food Justice Truck-FJT) on the experience of food insecurity for people seeking asylum living in Melbourne, Australia. This research uses a mixed methods approach, employing surveys and semistructured interviews to explore the lived experiences of asylum seekers using the FJT, including their experiences of food insecurity. Half of the asylum seekers interviewed in this study were found to be experiencing food insecurity. Participants in this study sourced food from multiple locations, with the FJT providing a supplemental, but highly valued source of fresh produce. The FJT was identified as positive social setting for some participants included in this research. This research has identified the ability of programmes such as the FJT to act as positive social settings.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 30-08-2023
Abstract: espite the known benefits of physical activity (PA), globally, rates of engagement in PA remain low. The low engagement of PA among young women has the potential to impact their health. Technology-supported PA may be able to increase PA and physical literacy (skills that can support PA) among young women. his systematic review aimed to investigate the: i) associations between technology-supported PA and PA levels, ii) associations between technology-supported PA and physical literacy levels and iii) the types of technology-supported PA that are associated with higher levels of PA engagement among women aged 13-24 years. ligible studies were original research, published in English between 2010 and 2023 from six databases Medline Complete, SPORTDiscus, Global Health, Education Source, Applied Science, and EMBASE. The studies focused on young women between 13-24 years-old, were either technology-supported PA interventions or research exploring correlation between technology and PA and/or physical literacy. Quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal checklists for randomised control trials (RCT), cross-sectional and quasi-experimental study designs. ligible studies were original research, published in English between 2010 and 2023 from six databases Medline Complete, SPORTDiscus, Global Health, Education Source, Applied Science, and EMBASE. The studies focused on young women between 13-24 years-old, were either technology-supported PA interventions or research exploring correlation between technology and PA and/or physical literacy. Quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal checklists for randomised control trials (RCT), cross-sectional and quasi-experimental study designs. his is the first review to investigate the literature exploring the use of technology-supported PA in young women. This review found limited evidence that technology-supported PA can improve young women’s PA or physical literacy. Given that technology-supported PA is still in its infancy, and technology is continuing to rapidly advance, further studies are needed to demonstrate the value and impact of technology-supported PA in improving PA and physical literacy among young women. ROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42022382471 www.crd.york.ac.uk rospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022382471
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 27-02-2021
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.330
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 10-2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 30-01-2023
DOI: 10.1017/S147474642200063X
Abstract: More than one in ten Australians live in poverty, with many relying on government provided support and emergency payments. These payments are insufficient to cover basic costs of living, and as a result, many people are forced to engage with emergency and community food assistance. The aim of this article is to explore the experiences of those who, despite being in receipt of an Australian welfare payment and engaged with the welfare system, rely on charitable food assistance for some or all of their weekly food supply. Interviews were conducted with seventy-eight people and were thematically analysed. The main findings of this study are the significant challenges faced by people who are on very low incomes when navigating the government-provided welfare and non-government charity systems and the insufficiency of the welfare system in providing income to meet basic costs of living.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2019
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 17-10-2017
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 15-03-2021
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 18-02-2011
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 05-10-2017
Abstract: Immigration policy, arrival modes, human rights, and international obligations have all been part of the debate that has ensued over the Australian Government’s policy response towards refugees and asylum seekers. This debate was a central c aign focus in the lead up to the 2013 Australian federal election and was accompanied by extensive media coverage. This media coverage is a significant contributor to the representation of refugees and asylum seekers to the Australian public. This study explores how refugees and asylum seekers were represented in Australian print news media in the period immediately before and after the 2013 federal election. Using news framing and critical discourse analysis, this study examined 162 articles, published between 7 August and 8 October 2013, in Australian newspapers. The analysis revealed two opposing themes in the representation of asylum seekers: refugees and asylum seekers were represented as either a threat requiring a military intervention or as victims requiring management. The findings of this study demonstrate the ways in which the print media contribute to a polarised representation of refugees and asylum seekers and the potential deleterious effect of this dichotomous construction to an informed public opinion.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 21-05-2023
DOI: 10.1177/10283153231178135
Abstract: International students in Australia risk financial insecurity and as a result, may make suboptimal health decisions. Limited research has explored the experiences of international students’ health-related financial decision making. In-depth interviews were conducted with 31 international students to explore how financial situation influences their decisions in Australia. Data were thematically analysed. Findings highlight that limited income can impact overall wellbeing and health-related decision making. When making financial health-related decisions, participants prioritised urgent health needs and education. Participants who perceived their financial situation limited were less willing to spend money on mental health services, social activities, and food. This study suggests that students may consider the long-term financial benefits of studying abroad when making decisions, but they do not consider the long-term health implications of stress and wellbeing. Enabling students to improve their financial situation and lower their expenses could enhance wellbeing and facilitate health-related decision making.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-01-2016
DOI: 10.1007/S10900-015-0147-5
Abstract: Food banks play a major role in the food aid sector by distributing donated and purchased groceries directly to food insecure families. The public health implications of food insecurity are significant, particularly as food insecurity has a higher prevalence among certain population groups. This review consolidates current knowledge about the function and efficacy of food banks to address food insecurity. A systematic review was conducted. Thirty-five publications were reviewed, of which 14 examined food security status, 13 analysed nutritional quality of food provided, and 24 considered clients' needs in relation to food bank use. This review found that while food banks have an important role to play in providing immediate solutions to severe food deprivation, they are limited in their capacity to improve overall food security outcomes due to the limited provision of nutrient-dense foods in insufficient amounts, especially from dairy, vegetables and fruits. Food banks have the potential to improve food security outcomes when operational resources are adequate, provisions of perishable food groups are available, and client needs are identified and addressed.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-08-2018
DOI: 10.1002/AJS4.48
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-08-2023
DOI: 10.1007/S10896-023-00624-5
Abstract: This review aimed to investigate and describe the current research that has reported on family violence and food insecurity and to explore any links. Research is beginning to explore the relationship between food insecurity and family violence, as such, this is a good time to review the current body of literature to identify existing gaps. This research employed a narrative systematic review allowing for a broad search while maintaining methodological rigour. Key word searches were performed in 6 electronic databases in January 2023. Two overarching concepts were used: “family violence” and “food security”. The findings were synthesised into a narrative review, reporting on specific population groups separately. The search generated 1724 articles, of which 868 were duplicates. The titles and abstracts of 856 articles were screened 765 articles were excluded because they did not investigate the experience of food insecurity and family violence. The full text of 91 articles was reviewed, with 32 included in this review. Most were from the USA, and most employed qualitative or mixed methods. Studies explored food insecurity and family violence in women, men and women, children, people who are HIV positive, and the relationship between the COVID-19 pandemic and food insecurity. Food insecurity and family violence are significant societal problems, with evidence that both have increased in prevalence and severity due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This review provides initial evidence for a bi-directional relationship between food insecurity and family violence in high income countries.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-04-2023
DOI: 10.1007/S13668-023-00470-3
Abstract: India is home to an estimated 200 million malnourished people, suggesting widespread food insecurity. However, variations in the methods used for determining food insecurity status mean there is uncertainty in the data and severity of food insecurity across the country. This systematic review investigated the peer-reviewed literature examining food insecurity in India to identify both the breadth of research being conducted as well as the instruments used and the populations under study. Nine databases were searched in March 2020. After excluding articles that did not meet the inclusion criteria, 53 articles were reviewed. The most common tool for measuring food insecurity was the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS), followed by the Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM), and the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES). Reported food insecurity ranged from 8.7 to 99% depending on the measurement tool and population under investigation. This study found variations in methods for the assessment of food insecurity in India and the reliance on cross-sectional studies. Based on the findings of this review and the size and ersity of the Indian population, there is an opportunity for the development and implementation of an Indian-specific food security measure to allow researchers to collect better data on food insecurity. Considering India’s widespread malnutrition and high prevalence of food insecurity, the development of such a tool will go part of way in addressing nutrition-related public health in India.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 12-06-2018
DOI: 10.3390/NU10060756
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2016
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-01-2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 23-10-2011
DOI: 10.1093/JRS/FER010
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 03-11-2022
DOI: 10.3390/NU14214633
Abstract: The purpose of this research is: (1) to determine the prevalence of food insecurity among pregnant people using the 10-, 6-, and 2-item iterations of the USA Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM) and the single item measure, and (2) identify an appropriate combination of questions that could be used to identify food insecurity in a clinical setting for a population of people who are pregnant in Australia. Cross-sectional survey collecting self-reported data from pregnant people in Australia (open May 2021 to March 2022). Survey included demographic characteristics, including income/welfare use, education, age, pregnancy information, household size and composition, and two measures of food insecurity. In total, 303 participants were included in the analysis. Sensitivity and specificity of the various combinations of questions were conducted. Food insecurity was estimated using the single item, and the 2-item, 6-item, and 10-item versions of the HFSSM, food insecurity was 6.2%, 11.4%, 11.7%, and 14.3% respectively. Respondents who were living in households that were food insecure answered affirmatively to question one, two, or three of the HFSSM, with the combination of questions one and three showing the best sensitivity and specificity for the whole s le, as well as for those who have characteristics likely to lead to food insecurity. Further testing of the 2-items, comprised of items one and three from the HFSSM, need to be conducted with a larger and more erse s le to determine if this is an appropriate screening tool in an antenatal clinical setting to determine food insecurity during pregnancy.
Publisher: Routledge
Date: 28-04-2020
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-04-2017
DOI: 10.1007/S10900-017-0351-6
Abstract: Many of the 36.7 million people living with HIV are also assumed to be food insecure. The implications of food insecurity in people living with HIV are significant, with food insecurity associated with an increased likelihood of tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drug use, experiences of depression or depressive symptoms, poor adherence and delayed uptake of HIV medication, nutritional vulnerability leading to interference of medication, and the uptake of risky behaviours as a way to gain access to food resources. This review sought to present the current intervention research around the experiences of food insecurity in PLWHA in high resource countries to determine successful models to address the issue. Only five articles were identified in a systematic search, three reported on studies that were conducted in the USA and two in Canada. Two articles were cross sectional, one was a program evaluation, one ethnography, and one took a qualitative approach. This review highlights a lack of published research in the area of HIV and food insecurity in resource rich countries. The findings of this study suggest that there are currently no standard or best practice ways to provide food aid to PLWHA to reduce food security. The lack of published results means that while there may be good programs operating in the community, this information and knowledge is not being shared, resulting in a lack of consistency in approach, possible duplication, and the potential for wasted resources. Overall, this review suggests a need for more dedicated evaluation and longitudinal research.
No related grants have been discovered for Fiona McKay.