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Prevalence of food insecurity among medical students in the second cycle of medical studies (years 4–6) in XXX

Agathe STOESSEL

Food insecurity, defined as insufficient access to adequate quality or quantity of food, is an increasing public health concern. University students are particularly vulnerable, and this situation is associated with poorer health and academic outcomes. However, few studies have focused on medical students, whose training involves unique academic and personal challenges.The primary objective was to estimate the prevalence of food insecurity among medical students enrolled in the second cycle of medical studies. The secondary objective was to identify associated factors.We conducted a multicentre cross-sectional study from April to August 2023, with an online questionnaire, among medical students in XXX enrolled in their 4th to 6th year of medical studies. Participants were recruited via two channels: direct email invitations sent to eligible student cohorts and dissemination of the survey link on social networks. Food insecurity was assessed using the 10-item USDA Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM). Descriptive and bivariate analyses were performed to explore associated factors.A total of 609 students participated. The study population included 75% women and 27% scholarship holders, with participants from five universities. This represented approximately 11% of the target population and was consistent with the demographic distribution usually reported in this group. The prevalence of food insecurity was 18.2% (95% CI 15.2–21.3). It was significantly higher among students receiving scholarships, those working alongside their studies, those living in student housing, and those with chronic illnesses or self-perceived poor health.This study provides the first XXX estimate of food insecurity among medical students using a validated scale. The large sample size strengthens its reliability, though selection and participation biases cannot be excluded. The prevalence observed is higher than in the general population and consistent with international literature linking food insecurity to economic and health vulnerabilities.Food insecurity affects a substantial proportion of future physicians and may impact both well-being and academic performance. Addressing this issue is relevant to medical education and general practice, as it highlights the role of socioeconomic factors in health. Further nationwide studies should explore causal pathways and guide interventions to support medical students and enhance equity in healthcare training.