Food Insecurity is Associated with Monthly Income in Botswana, Africa

Objective Botswana reports one of the highest rates (24.1%) of HIV‐infection in the general population in the world. Since HIV‐infection is associated with nutritional abnormalities, we determined the levels of income that place patients at the highest risk for food insecurity and poor nutritional intake, in order to assist in identifying those at the highest need for food assistance programs. Methods After consenting, 751 HIV infected asymptomatic patients were included in the analysis. Clinical, demographic and food security questionnaires were administered. Two 24‐hour recalls were averaged for each participant. Levels of income were ranked. Results The average monthly income range was significantly lower for women (300 to 600 pulas, p<0.0001) than men (600 to 1,000 pulas). Those with monthly income <300 pulas had significantly less access to food (p=0.0195), used more non‐governmental food assistance (p=0.0481), and had lower caloric intake (1514.2±713 vs. 1702.7±689 kcal, p=0.009) than those with incomes > 1000 pulas. Conclusion There was a significant association and higher risk for food insecurity, lack of food availability, utilization of non‐governmental food aid and inadequate nutrition in those with monthly income of <300 pulas (~$35.79 USD). Food assistance programs need to be targeted to HIV patients at these low income levels. Supported by NIDA