Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 6
INTRODUCTION.. 6
1.1 Background to the Study.. 6
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 7
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 8
1.4 Research Questions. 9
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 9
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 9
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 10
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 10
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 11
1.10 Definition of Terms. 12
CHAPTER TWO.. 15
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 15
2.1 Introduction.. 15
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 16
2.2.1 Social Capital Theory. 16
2.2.2 Ecological Systems Theory. 16
2.2.3 Political Economy Theory. 17
2.2.4 Cultural Capital Theory. 17
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 17
2.4 Empirical Review.. 20
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 21
Chapter Three.. 22
Research Methodology.. 22
3.1 Introduction.. 22
3.2 Research Design.. 23
3.3 Population and Sample Selection.. 23
3.4 Data Collection Methods. 24
3.5 Data Analysis Techniques. 24
3.6 Ethical Considerations. 25
3.7 Limitations of the Study.. 25
3.8 Summary.. 26
CHAPTER FOUR.. 26
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 26
4.1 Preamble.. 26
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 27
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 30
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 30
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 42
Discussion of Findings. 43
CHAPTER FIVE.. 46
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.. 46
5.1 Summary.. 46
5.2 Conclusion.. 46
5.3 Recommendations. 47
REFERENCES.. 49
Questionnaire.. 51
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Access to adequate nutrition is a critical determinant of health, profoundly influenced by social factors that shape food availability, affordability, and utilization. In Nigeria, a country marked by diverse socioeconomic landscapes, the impact of social determinants of health on food access and nutrition is multifaceted and profound. Social determinants such as income inequality, educational attainment, urbanization, and cultural practices significantly influence individuals' ability to obtain nutritious food. Income inequality, for instance, limits purchasing power, thereby restricting access to a diverse range of nutritious foods (Smith et al., 2023). Moreover, educational attainment plays a crucial role in shaping food choices and nutritional knowledge, impacting dietary behaviors and overall health outcomes (Jones & Brown, 2022).
Urbanization in Nigeria has led to significant shifts in dietary patterns, with increased consumption of processed foods that are often high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats (Adams & White, 2023). This transition is driven by changes in lifestyle and the proliferation of fast-food outlets, which are more accessible in urban areas compared to rural regions (James et al., 2023). Furthermore, cultural factors such as traditional food practices and beliefs about diet and health play a pivotal role in shaping nutritional behaviors (Okonkwo & Eze, 2022). These cultural norms can either promote or hinder healthy eating habits, influencing food choices and dietary diversity among different population groups.
The intersection of these social determinants underscores the complexity of addressing food access and nutrition in Nigeria. Policies aimed at improving food security and nutrition must consider these factors comprehensively to create effective interventions that are tailored to the needs of diverse communities (Adewole et al., 2023). Moreover, addressing disparities in food access requires a multi-sectoral approach that integrates health, agriculture, education, and economic development strategies (Ogundele & Ahmed, 2022). By understanding the interplay of social determinants, stakeholders can develop sustainable solutions that enhance food access, promote healthier dietary practices, and ultimately improve population health outcomes in Nigeria.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The impact of social determinants of health on food access and nutrition in Nigeria presents a significant challenge amidst the country's diverse socioeconomic landscape. Income inequality stands out as a critical determinant, limiting the purchasing power of vulnerable populations and thereby restricting their access to nutritious foods (Smith et al., 2023). Moreover, educational disparities play a pivotal role, influencing individuals' nutritional knowledge and dietary behaviors. In Nigeria, where educational attainment levels vary widely across regions and socioeconomic groups, disparities in nutrition knowledge contribute to uneven dietary practices and health outcomes (Jones & Brown, 2022).
Urbanization further complicates the issue, as rapid urban growth in Nigeria has led to shifts in dietary patterns towards more processed and convenience foods. This transition is driven by factors such as increased availability of fast food outlets and changing lifestyles in urban centers (Adams & White, 2023). Consequently, urban residents often face challenges in accessing fresh, locally produced foods that are essential for a balanced diet. These dynamics underscore the need for targeted interventions and policies that address the multifaceted influences of social determinants on food access and nutrition in Nigeria, aiming to mitigate disparities and improve overall population health.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the impact of social determinants of health on food access and nutrition in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To analyze the relationship between poverty and dietary diversity in Nigerian households
- To investigate the influence of education on nutritional knowledge and food choices in Nigerian adults
- To explore the effect of gender roles on food security within Nigerian households
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- How does household income level correlate with the variety and quality of food consumed in different regions of Nigeria?
- Does educational attainment level impact an individual's understanding of healthy eating habits in Nigeria?
- How does the primary responsibility for food acquisition within a household influence access to nutritious food in Nigeria?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant impact of social determinants of health on food access and nutrition in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Food and Nutrition sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Social Determinants of Health
These are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, which are shaped by the distribution of money, power, and resources at global, national, and local levels. These determinants influence health outcomes and access to resources like food.
2. Food Access
Refers to the availability, affordability, and convenience of acquiring nutritionally adequate and culturally appropriate foods. It encompasses physical access (proximity to food sources), economic access (affordability), and informational access (knowledge about nutritious choices).
3. Nutrition
The process by which organisms obtain and utilize food for growth, maintenance, and health. In the context of health, good nutrition refers to consuming a balanced diet that provides essential nutrients in appropriate quantities.
4. Food Security
Exists when all people, at all times, have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life. It includes the concepts of availability, accessibility, utilization, and stability.
5. Malnutrition
A broad term that encompasses both undernutrition (such as stunting, wasting, and underweight) and overnutrition (such as obesity and diet-related noncommunicable diseases). It results from insufficient or excessive consumption of nutrients relative to individual needs.
6. Health Disparities
Differences in health outcomes between groups of people that are often closely linked with social, economic, and environmental disadvantages. These disparities can be seen in access to healthcare, health status, and health outcomes, including nutrition-related health issues.
7. Public Health Interventions
Strategies and actions aimed at improving the health of populations rather than individuals. These interventions can include policy changes, educational programs, community-based initiatives, and structural improvements to address social determinants of health and improve food access and nutrition outcomes.
