Examining the Impact of Food Security and Accessibility to Healthcare Services on Chronic Disease Risk Among Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Food security and access to healthcare are crucial determinants of health, but their impact on chronic disease risk among forcibly displaced populations is understudied. This study delves into the relationship between food security, accessibility to healthcare services, and chronic disease risk among Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. Methods: Drawing from a nationally representative cross-sectional survey, this research investigates how the availability of food, accessibility to healthcare facilities, and utilization of services impact the likelihood of chronic diseases within this marginalized population. Using a cross-sectional survey collated from the UNHCR 2020 Joint Multi-Sector Needs Assessment survey, we deployed a series of multivariate logistic regression models to examine the relationship between food security, healthcare proximity, chronic disease, and sociodemographic characteristics. Results: Food security significantly decreased the risk of chronic diseases (OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.43, 0.98). Living far from healthcare facilities increased the risk (OR = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.03, 2.54). Conclusion: This study’s findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions aimed at enhancing food security and improving healthcare accessibility to alleviate the burden of chronic diseases among Rohingya refugees. By identifying key social determinants and barriers to healthcare access, this research equips policymakers with evidence-based strategies to design targeted interventions that improve nutrition, healthcare delivery, and chronic disease management for displaced populations.