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Food Insecurity as a Structural Threat to the Health of Vulnerable Populations: A Review of Nutritional Dimensions
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Maedeh Akbari *1    , Sara Naghib2 |
1- Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Guilan University, Rasht, Iran.
2- Department of Nutrition Science, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran. |
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Abstract: (12 Views) |
Background and Aim: Food insecurity is one of the most significant structural challenges in the field of public health, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations. This phenomenon is not merely a nutritional issue, but rather a reflection of economic and social inequalities, as well as ineffective policymaking, which collectively limit sustained access to healthy, nutritious and sufficient food. Under such conditions, groups such as children, women, the elderly and low-income households are most at risk. The article emphasizes that addressing food insecurity requires holistic, equity-oriented and evidence-based policies that critically examine the intersections between health, nutrition, social welfare and power structures. Moving toward more just and inclusive food systems is the only path to narrowing nutritional disparities and ensuring lasting health for vulnerable populations.
Methods: This narrative review aimed to examine various aspects of food insecurity among vulnerable groups. Both quantitative and qualitative data were extracted from credible global sources such as FAO, WHO and peer-reviewed scientific literature. The sources were selected with a focus on food insecurity in populations such as children, pregnant women, the elderly and patients. Data analysis was conducted qualitatively using a thematic approach.
Ethical Considerations: This narrative review was based solely on published sources and did not involve any human or animal participants; therefore, ethical approval was not required. All sources were properly cited to ensure academic integrity. AI tools were used only for language editing and the authors adhered to principles of transparency and responsible scientific reporting throughout the writing process.
Results: Food insecurity severely affects physical and mental health, leading to chronic hunger, micronutrient deficiencies, obesity and behavioral issues. It is worsened by structural factors like poverty, economic instability and climate change. Effective response requires sustainable, culturally sensitive policies tailored to vulnerable groups, with locally adapted interventions that protect human dignity. Reforming food systems and subsidy distribution is key to achieving nutritional stability.
Conclusion: Food insecurity is a structural threat rooted in social and economic inequalities, affecting the physical and mental health of vulnerable groups and the broader economy. Addressing it requires a comprehensive, justice-oriented and interdisciplinary approach that combines public health, welfare policies and social support. Artificial intelligence can enhance policy effectiveness by analyzing data and predicting nutritional needs. |
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| Keywords: Food Insecurity, Vulnerable Groups, Structural Threats, Public Health |
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Full-Text [PDF 542 kb]
(5 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Review Article |
Received: 2025/07/28 | Accepted: 2025/09/16 | Published: 2025/11/5
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