Relative Severity of Food Insecurity During Overland Migration in Transit Through Mexico.

Despite anecdotal reports of food insufficiency in the overland migration through Mexico, little is known about the frequency and extent of food insecurity during this transit. In a shelter in north central Mexico, we interviewed 95 Central American migrants traveling overland to the US regarding their experiences of food insecurity in transit. 74% experienced some degree of food insecurity, ranging from having only one meal to no food at all in one or several consecutive 24 h periods. Factors associated with relatively more severe food insecurity included more days in active transit, more severe illness impacting mobility, or travel companion illness in the prior 2 weeks. Illness was predicted by a pre-migration diagnosis of chronic disease. Understanding the factors associated with relative severity of food insecurity during overland migration can inform policies for prioritizing assistance and prevention.