Food insecurity among female collegiate athletes exists despite university assistance
Crystal Douglas, Simone Camel, Wesley Mayeux
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence and characteristics of food insecurity among female collegiate athletes. PARTICIPANTS: NCAA Division I female athletes attending a public university located in East Texas in 2018. METHODS: A prospective cross-sectional online survey was employed to gather quantitative and qualitative data regarding food security status. Participants were instructed to complete the 26-item questionnaire, including the six-item USFSSM. RESULTS: Participants (N = 78) were 18-22 years of age, largely white (75%). Despite most (89.74%) receiving some form of scholarship and 80% reporting provision of some meals, 32.10% were classified as food insecure. Barriers to food intake were two-fold higher among the food insecure (88% vs 43%, p < .001); limited time (43.6%) and finances (23.1%) were the most frequently reported barriers. CONCLUSIONS: Despite university support, food insecurity exists in female collegiate athletes. Outcomes warrant screening for food insecurity, referral to support resources throughout matriculation, and tailored intervention programs.