Food insecurity in South Indian households with TB during COVID-19 lockdowns and the impact of nutritional interventions: A qualitative study

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0004242
• Publication Date: 2025-04-09T17:32:58Z
• Authors: Madeline E. Carwile; Komal Jain; Madolyn R. Dauphi...; Prakash Babu Nara...; Kimberly Maloomian; Manju Rajaram; Chelsie Cintron; C. Finn McQuaid; Lindsey M. Locks; Lora L. Sabin; Subitha Lakshmina...; Pranay Sinha
• Keywords: Pandemic

Tuberculosis (TB) mortality rose during the COVID-19 pandemic, as did food insecurity worldwide. Undernourished individuals are at increased risk for incident TB disease and mortality. This study examines impact of COVID lockdowns on security households with in Southern India. In-depth interviews focus group discussions were conducted household contacts enrolled a nutritional intervention study, Puducherry Tamil Nadu (2018–2024), which provided persons six-month intervention. During lockdowns, 78% our had no income; 67% resorted to distress financing, such loans, afford food; 44% changed their eating habits, buying less or different items. Respondents reported that improved security. Crises pandemic can reduce both access diversity, leading macronutrient micronutrient deficiencies increase incidence Undernutrition due may have been driver hastened progression disease-related morbidity pandemic. Nutritional support interventions should be implemented part response.