Nutritional Characteristics of Homeless People in Airin District, Osaka: Comparison with People on Welfar

Abstract

Objective: There are many homeless people and people on welfare who experience homelessness in Airin district, Osaka. The aim of this study was to compare the nutritional characteristics of these 2 groups, and to explore what kind of support should be provided. Methods: We recruited 156 homeless people and 45 people on welfare through the tuberculosis examinations. We compared the anthropometric and biochemical status, and nutritional parameters of these 2 groups using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Results: Both groups included many people who were lean, anemic, and had lifestyle-related diseases. Compared with people on welfare, homeless people had significantly higher intakes of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and significantly lower intakes of vegetables. When we investigated the accessibility of these 3 food groups, we found a large number of vending machines selling beverages priced lower in Airin district than in any other area. In contrast, the vegetarian dishes were sold at higher prices than other dishes in supermarkets. Conclusions: People on welfare had more favorable intakes of these food groups than homeless people. It is imperative to provide such people social support to escape from homelessness, to consider the accessibility of various food groups, and to advise them about their diets.