Grant: Project Grant

Household food insecurity, the inadequate or insecure access to food due to financial constraints, affected 12.6% of Canadian households in 2012. Food insecurity is more prevalent among households with children, and our recent exploratory study suggests that pregnancy and child birth may be associated with even higher risk. Food insecurity among pregnant women is concerning because food insecurity is associated with poor health and increased health care costs. It may pose serious risks to the health of newborns, negatively affecting their health through childhood and beyond. However, in Canada, there has been little research examining food insecurity during pregnancy or early life. In this study, we will use national survey data and health care data from Ontario to examine the relationship between household food insecurity and maternal and infant health. We will also determine the magnitude and severity of the food insecurity among pregnant women across Canada and identify what puts them at risk of food insecurity. Currently, there are no policy interventions designed explicitly to address food insecurity during pregnancy. This research into the origins and implications of food insecurity for pregnancy and child birth in Canada will importantly help to set priorities and identify directions for interventions in the future. Our research findings will also be used to develop guidelines for physicians and other health care providers to help them respond more effectively to women who are food insecure during pregnancy.