The Impact of Some Socio-economic Factors on the Nutritional Behavior of Children and Adolescents During the Outbreak of COVID-19: A Case Study of Mashhad, Iran

Various surveys show that the economic and social statuses of the family affect the nutrition and growth of children. One of the vulnerable groups during the COVID-19 are children and adolescents. The identification of the amount and severity of their injuries can minimize the extent of their vulnerability to various factors during this pandemic.

The data of this survey were collected through a questionnaire, and simple random sampling was used to select the participants. The statistical population consisted of sufficient number of cases between the ages of 10 and 20 years and living in Mashhad (the samples were from high-, medium-, and low- income classes based on the division of income areas by Mashhad Municipality). Data analysis was done using Probit Regression Models.

With an increase in the number of family members, it was observed that the consumption of protein substances, as well as fruits and vegetables decreased. Renters, low-income individuals, and girls have also been more affected by Corona and have experienced a greater reduction in consumption than owners, individuals with other income classes, and boys, respectively. In both regressions, the variable of “how to occupy the place of residence” has a larger coefficient in terms of absolute value than other variables, and it can be claimed that being a tenant or owner has the greatest impact on consumption.

The losses caused by Corona can be reduced by supporting tenants, households with a large population, and low-income groups.