Funding awarded for study on food insecurity among individuals with chronic health conditions
University researchers Associate Professor Mona Jeffreys and Kahurangi Dey will investigate the prevalence and causes of food insecurity among individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and/or long Covid.
Funded by the Associated New Zealand ME Society (ANZMES), this research will use a standardised survey to collect data from individuals in Aotearoa who have been diagnosed with, or identify as having, one of these conditions. The study will quantify the prevalence of food insecurity and will contribute to the development of an ME/CFS registry, a crucial resource for future research.
Food insecurity is a complex issue involving four aspects: access, availability, utilisation, and stability. Access refers to the financial means to buy food, while utilisation focuses on the ability to prepare and consume it.
“These elements are closely connected, especially for people with chronic health conditions like ME/CFS,” says Ms Dey. “For those with limited income or physical barriers, accessing food can be a challenge, and the ability to prepare meals may be further hindered by physical capability or lack of support.
“Individuals with health conditions that affect mobility and energy often face the greatest difficulties in maintaining food security. These chronic conditions not only limit earning potential but also increase household expenses, such as healthcare, medications, transportation, and special dietary needs.
“This financial strain makes it harder to secure consistent access to nutritious food, putting additional pressure on those already struggling to manage their health.”
Associate Professor Jeffreys explains that the research will address a significant gap in understanding the well-being of ME/CFS patients.
“Research into ME/CFS has been overlooked for decades. This grant enables us to expand our work on food insecurity, particularly focusing on the unique challenges faced by people living with chronic health conditions. We're especially interested in how food access and utilisation intersect for these individuals."
Respondents will also be given the option to be included in the ME/CFS registry. “It’s crucial that we begin to count how many people are living with ME/CFS,” says Associate Professor Jeffreys. "A national disease registry is essential for future population-based research, as current national datasets do not adequately capture ME/CFS cases."
The project is led by Ms Dey, an expert in kai research, and Associate Professor Jeffreys who specialises in long Covid and lives with ME/CFS. The research is designed in a Te Tiriti partnership model, with both Māori and non-Māori lead researchers. “This approach ensures that Māori are included at every stage of the research, which is key to achieving positive outcomes,” says Associate Professor Jeffreys.
Fiona Charlton, president of ANZMES, expressed her enthusiasm for the project. "This research’s innovative focus on food insecurity, a critical aspect of well-being for individuals with ME/CFS and long Covid, stood out. We are excited to support this important work."
Also from the University, Beth Hobbs was awarded $5k to fund psychology registration training, which will enable her to continue to work with those experiencing symptoms of ME/CFS.