United States – A study has shown that women in the federal aid program have improved health than those who experience food insecurity during pregnancy. The survey conducted by the US government also reveals that over 10 percent of the US families suffer from food insecurity.
Understanding the WIC Program
The Special Supplemental Food Program for Women Infants and Children of the United Stated of America provides nutrition, health and other related services to the fortunate or the low income pregnant and breastfeeding women and the infants and children up to five years of age, as reported by HealthDay.
Research Findings
A study by Ohio State University concluded that Women in WIC had a lower risk of the above mentioned adverse pregnancy outcomes of gestational diabetes, blood transfusion, preterm delivery, and ICU admission for both the mother and the infant.
Impact of Decreased WIC Participation
Despite its benefits, WIC participation decreased from 73 per 100 live births in 2016 to 66 per 100 in 2019. However, counties with increased WIC participation saw significant reductions in ICU admissions (50%), gestational diabetes, and blood transfusions at birth (30%). These counties also reported fewer preterm births and ICU admissions for babies., as reported by HealthDay.
Expert Insights and Future Directions
“This study confirms the effectiveness of programs like WIC,” remarked Dr. William Grobman, co-author and maternal-fetal medicine specialist. Dr. Kartik Venkatesh, lead researcher, emphasized the need to connect individuals facing food insecurity with WIC and other essential social services to enhance family outcomes.