Association between Food Insecurity, Socioeconomic Status of the Household Head, and Hypertension and Diabetes in Maputo City

Abstract

Background: Metabolic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes are increasingly recognized as not just medical issues, but as complex conditions influenced by various factors. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the association between food insecurity (FI) and hypertension and diabetes and how socioeconomic status influences this relationship. Methods: Based on a cross-sectional study of 1,820 participants conducted in Maputo City, FI was measured using a modified version of the US Department of Agriculture scale; metabolic diseases were assessed using self-reports of the actual diagnoses, and data were analyzed through multinomial regression and interaction terms. Results: The findings revealed significant links between FI, socioeconomic status, hypertension and diabetes. Socioeconomic status had a clear influence on the association between FI and hypertension but showed a nuanced influence on diabetes. Specifically, regarding diabetes, the heads of households with a higher socioeconomic position were more likely to have this health condition than their counterparts with a lower socioeconomic position. Conclusions: The study underscores the complex interplay between FI and socioeconomic status in influencing the risk of metabolic diseases. Addressing FI and improving socioeconomic status may be crucial steps in mitigating the risk of hypertension and diabetes among vulnerable populations, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to health promotion and disease prevention.