Sociodemographic factors and livestock rearing on household food security in some selected rural areas of Bangladesh

Abstract

Diet, nutrition, and health have been demonstrated to be influenced by household food security (HFS). It has considerable health impacts on the physical, social and psychological status of individuals suffering from food insecurity. Aim:The purpose of this study was to determine the associated factors of household food security and to determine the correlation between HFS with household dietary diversity (HDD) and children dietary diversity (CDD). Methods: A community based cross-sectional survey was conducted in Boalkhali, Chakaria and Raipuraupazilla of Bangladesh. A total of 307 households were recruited and interviewed through a questionnaire. The 30 days recall of 11 groups household food security scale was used to assess HFS. The nonparametic tests and Spearman’s rank correlation were applied to find out the association between HFS and other covariates. Results: The mean HFS score was 7.20 (SD 1.20). The positive significant relationship was found between HFS and HDD, HFS and CDD. The mean HFS score was higher for high income and educated people. The mean HFS was higher in those who were knowledgeable about nutrition. Besides, BMI of mother and livestock rearing were significantly associated with HFS. Conclusion:The findings imply that paying attention to qualifications, solvency, and nutritional knowledge may help to improve household food security. Intervention programs be designed and carried out.