Estado nutricional, consumo de alimentos e (in) segurança alimentar de crianças assistidas pelo Programa Bolsa Família

Abstract

Populations living in conditions of social and economic inequality are more vulnerable to the occurrence of nutritional problems which negatively impact children's growth, development and health. In this scenario, the Conditional Cash Transfer Programs are important strategies to alleviate the food insecurity situation of these families. However, it should be noted that such monetary transfer does not represent a guarantee of adequate food. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the nutritional status, qualitative dietary intake, and levels of food (in) security of the children assisted by the Bolsa Família Program living in the municipality of Nazária (PI). A cross-sectional study was conducted with 134 children aged seven to 10 years. A questionnaire was applied to parents/guardians to collect information on socioeconomic variables. Children's nutritional status was assessed by measuring height and body weight, and classified according to the parameters of body mass index-for-age, weight-for-age, and height-for-age. For the evaluation of dietary intake, the questionnaire with markers on food consumption for individuals over five years old of the Food and Nutrition Surveillance System was used. The Brazilian Food Insecurity Scale was applied to obtain the level of food insecurity of the families. The majority of children benefiting of the Bolsa Família Program has adequate nutritional status. However, the prevalence of overweight and obesity identified in this population represents a concerning health factor. Associated with this, children have a daily intake of unhealthy foods and infrequent consumption of nutritious foods. Furthermore, even with the financial support of the program, many families are still in a situation of food insecurity.