Effects of Food and Nutrition Insecurity on Global Health

Food and nutrition insecurity affects populations globally, with disproportionate harm to those with limited resources. The review highlights its role in malnutrition, communicable and noncommunicable diseases, and mental health struggles. In 2022, 9% of the global population experienced hunger, while 30% faced moderate-to-severe food insecurity.

The article explores key drivers such as political conflict, climate change, economic instability, and structural violence, emphasizing that nutrition insecurity may extend beyond food availability issues. Six dimensions availability, access, utilization, stability, sustainability, and agency—frame the assessment of global food security.

Health consequences include growth faltering, infectious diseases, poor maternal-child health outcomes, and chronic conditions. The piece advocates for nutrition-sensitive interventions, such as improving agricultural systems, enhancing economic support, and expanding healthcare accessibility. Clinicians play a crucial role in screening patients for food insecurity, with recommendations to incorporate food assistance programs and advocate for policy changes supporting global nutrition security.

Food and nutrition insecurity affects populations globally, with disproportionate harm to those with limited resources. The review highlights its role in malnutrition, communicable and noncommunicable diseases, and mental health struggles. In 2022, 9% of the global population experienced hunger, while 30% faced moderate-to-severe food insecurity.

The article explores key drivers such as political conflict, climate change, economic instability, and structural violence, emphasizing that nutrition insecurity may extend beyond food availability issues. Six dimensions availability, access, utilization, stability, sustainability, and agency—frame the assessment of global food security.

Health consequences include growth faltering, infectious diseases, poor maternal-child health outcomes, and chronic conditions. The piece advocates for nutrition-sensitive interventions, such as improving agricultural systems, enhancing economic support, and expanding healthcare accessibility. Clinicians play a crucial role in screening patients for food insecurity, with recommendations to incorporate food assistance programs and advocate for policy changes supporting global nutrition security.