The Interplay Between Food Security, Dietary Diversity, and Disease Patterns Among Pregnant Rohingya Women in Cox’s Bazar Makeshift Camps

Background The health and nutritional well-being of pregnant women in refugee populations are critical concerns due to heightened vulnerabilities associated with displacement and inadequate living conditions. This study examines the interplay between food security, dietary diversity, and disease patterns among pregnant Rohingya women residing in the makeshift camps of Ukhiya, Cox's Bazar. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 96 pregnant Rohingya women from June to September 2022. Data was collected using structured questionnaires assessing socio-demographic characteristics, food security, dietary diversity, and disease patterns. Food security was evaluated using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS), while dietary diversity was assessed through a 24-hour dietary recall and 7-day food frequency questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS (Version 26) and Stata (Version 13), employing descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Results Most participants (57.3%) were food secure, and 85.4% demonstrated high dietary diversity by consuming seven or more food groups. However, 21.9% of households experienced severe food insecurity. The prevalence of health issues was notable, with 51.0% reporting at least one disease during pregnancy, the most common being acidity (36.5%), viral fever (15.6%), and cough (13.5%). No significant associations were found between food security or dietary diversity and most disease outcomes, except for a significant relationship between jaundice and lower dietary diversity. Conclusions Despite the high dietary diversity among participants, severe food insecurity and health disparities remain critical challenges. Tailored interventions focusing on improving food security, promoting dietary diversity, and providing integrated health services are essential to address the unique needs of pregnant Rohingya women. Future research should explore causal relationships and evaluate the effectiveness of different food aid models to enhance maternal health outcomes in refugee settings.