Food insecurity and hypertension: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Food insecurity and the risk of mortality among Hispanics with hypertension

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Hypertension continues to be a major public health problem affecting almost half of the adults in the US. The intersection of hypertension with food insecurity has not been well-examined specifically among minority populations. We aimed to examine the influence of food insecurity on mortality among adult Hispanics.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data on adult Hispanic (age≥ 20 years) respondents of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1999 to 2010 were analyzed. Mortality was assessed by linking these data with the National Death Index through December 31, 2019. Using complex samples Cox regression analysis, the relationship between hypertension, food insecurity, and mortality was assessed. Sociodemographic (age, gender, poverty-income-ratio, marital status, and citizenship status) and health-related characteristics (COPD, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease) of the population were included as covariates in the regression analysis to assess mortality risk. The crude hazard ratio (HR) for overall mortality related to hypertension was 4.95 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.22-5.82, p < .001). The adjusted HR was elevated, 2.01 (95%CI = 1.50-2.70, p < .001), among individuals with both hypertension and food insecurity. However, among individuals with hypertension and no food insecurity, there was no statistically significant increase in the risk of mortality (HR = 1.09, 95%CI = 0.89-1.34, p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In adult Hispanics, food insecurity significantly increases the risk of mortality among those with hypertension compared to food-secure individuals. Clinicians should be sensitized to the need for food security among Hispanics with hypertension to effectively manage hypertension and reduce premature mortality.

The food environment and hypertension: A cross-sectional analysis in Black breast cancer survivors in Maryland

OBJECTIVES

The Food Environment Index (FEI) has shown varying positive impacts on health outcomes related to diabetes, obesity, and hypertension. However, a relationship between FEI and hypertension among breast cancer (BC) survivors, particularly Black women survivors, remains underexplored. Black women who are BC survivors have a high prevalence of hypertension and increased risk of mortality compared to White women with BC. Our analysis aims to fill this gap by assessing the FEI's association with hypertension in this population.

DESIGN

Utilizing social media recruitment strategies and BC survivor networks, 100 Black female BC survivors completed an online survey, that included sociodemographic and clinical characteristics as well as lifestyle factors. The 2023 FEI County Health Rankings was used to assess the food environment and the index ranges from 0 (worst) to 10 (best). Adjusted prevalence odds ratios (PORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for the associations between FEI, sociodemographic and clinical factors, and hypertension status.

RESULTS

Among the 94 study participants with data on hypertension status, 54.3 % reported a diagnosis of hypertension. Residing in counties with a below-median FEI (<8.8 v. above median: ≥8.8) was significantly associated with hypertension (POR = 4.10, 95 % CI: 1.19-14.13). Age at survey (≥50 years compared to <50 years: POR= 0.29, 95 % CI: 0.10-0.87) and household income ($75,000-$99,999 compared to > $99,999/year: POR = 12.02, 95 % CI: 2.08-69.43) were also significantly associated with hypertension.

CONCLUSION

Our study highlights the potential impact of the food environment on hypertension among Black BC survivors living in Maryland. Our findings call attention to the need for targeted interventions to improve food accessibility and quality in underserved communities, especially for special populations such as cancer survivors.

Association between food insecurity and chronic noncommunicable diseases in Brazil: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the association of food insecurity (FI) with chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the Brazilian context.

METHODS

The review protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). The searches were conducted in LILACS and PubMed databases (September/2022). Observational studies carried out in the Brazilian population published since 2003 were included, in which: (1) the association of FI with NCDs was analyzed; and (2) the Brazilian Food Insecurity Scale was used. Studies on pregnant women and those that associated FI with cancer, sexually transmitted infections, and musculoskeletal and respiratory diseases were excluded. The studies were subjected to methodological quality assessment.

RESULTS

A total of 27 cross-sectional studies were included; nine used secondary data from national surveys, and the others used primary data. An association between FI and overweight and obesity in different age groups was verified in the studies.

CONCLUSION

The included articles did not produce evidence on other NCDs of interest to health in Brazil such as diabetes and high blood pressure. However, they corroborate the already-known relationship between obesity and FI. Studies on the topic, with a longitudinal design, should be encouraged.

Benefits of using both the Hunger Vital Sign and brief nutrition security screener in health-related social needs screening

Food security is a commonly screened for health-related social need at hospitals and community settings, and until recently, there were no tools to additionally screen for nutrition security. The purpose of this study was to assess the potential advantage of including a one-item brief nutrition security screener (BNSS) alongside the commonly used two-item Hunger Vital Sign (HVS) food security screener for identifying individuals with diet-related health risks. Cross-sectional survey data were collected from April to June 2021. Generalized linear mixed models were used to assess associations between screening status and dietary and health variables. Recruitment was done across five states (California, Florida, Maryland, North Carolina, and Washington) from community-based organizations. Participants (n = 435) were, on average, 44.7 years old (SD = 14.5), predominantly women (77%), and racially/ethnically diverse. In adjusted analyses, being in the food insecure and nutrition insecure group (but not the food insecure and nutrition secure or food secure and nutrition insecure groups) was associated with significantly increased odds for self-reported "fair" or "poor" general health [OR = 2.914 (95% CI = 1.521-5.581)], reporting at least one chronic condition [2.028 (1.024-4.018)], and "low" fruit and vegetable intake [2.421 (1.258-4.660)], compared with the food secure and nutrition secure group. These findings support using both the HVS and BNSS simultaneously in health-related social needs screening to identify participants at the highest risk for poor dietary and health outcomes and warrant further investigation into applying these screeners to clinical and community settings.

Impact of a Hospital-Based Food Pharmacy Program on Health Outcomes of Vulnerable Patients

Access to healthy foods, especially for those who are living with diabetes and hypertension, is crucial in managing these chronic diseases. This study evaluates the implementation of a food pharmacy and food prescription program at a safety-net hospital that serves vulnerable populations. Patients who screen as food insecure using the USDA adult food security survey receive a referral from the physician to the food pharmacy program where a dietician reviews their dietary requirements based on their chronic disease and develops a diet plan. Patients then receive fresh produce, meats and other products every 2 weeks that meets their nutritional needs from the food pharmacy. Biometric data from the patient's most recent clinic visit at the time of enrollment was collected as the baseline measures including blood pressure, weight, and HbA1c (if diabetic). Additionally, biometric information was collected from the patient's medical records from regularly scheduled clinic visits at 6 month intervals. A total of 266 patients were enrolled in the program during the 13-month period that was studied (121 patients with 6-month data and 68 patients with 12-month data). The statistical analysis showed a significant improvement in diastolic blood pressure at 12 months and in weight at both the 6 months and 12 months timeframes when comparing to baseline biometrics.

Racial and ethnic demographics in malnutrition related deaths

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Currently, 40 million Americans are food insecure. They are forced to skip meals and buy non-nutritious food, leading to health disparities for those of low socioeconomic status. This study aims to investigate relationships between malnutrition deaths and sociodemographic groups.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study from 2009 to 2018 used aggregate data from the CDC Wide-ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (CDC Wonder). Patients with known race, gender, and Hispanic origin age ≥18 who died from malnutrition (E40-E46) were included. Place of death was grouped into home, inpatient medical facility, hospice facility, nursing facility/long-term care, other (including outpatient, ED, and DOA), and unknown. Crude rates of malnutrition deaths per 100,000 persons for race, gender, and Hispanic origin were calculated using US census estimates. Gross proportions of total deaths were calculated for each place of death.

RESULTS

Between 2009 and 2018, there were 46,517 malnutrition deaths in the US. Death rates for Black (1.8) and White Americans (2) were twice as high compared to Native Americans (1.1) and Asians or Pacific Islanders (0.7). Death rates among females (2.3) were higher than males (1.5). Death rates among non-Hispanics (2.1) were twice as high compared to Hispanics (0.7). Most people who died of malnutrition died in hospitals (37 %).

CONCLUSION

Malnutrition deaths occur at greater rates among White, Black, non-Hispanic Americans, and females. Despite reported disparities in food access, Black and White Americans have similar malnutrition mortality rates, raising concerns that malnutrition is under-diagnosed among Black patients. Given the existing nutrition literature, this finding requires further investigation.

Investigating level of food security among patients with hypertension and diabetes at a student-run free clinic

Background

Nutritional recommendations for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension assume high food security. However, food insecurity is estimated to affect 10% of the US population and more so patients at our student-run free clinic (SRFC). The aims of the study were to (1) assess food security in patients with a diagnosis of T2DM, hypertension, or both and (2) examine the relationship between food security and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) or blood pressure at an SRFC.

Methods

Eligible participants completed a 10-item food security questionnaire and an item addressing perceived barriers. Most recent HbA1C and blood pressure measurements were gathered. Comparisons were made using univariate or multivariate linear regression analysis.

Results

Results from 79 participants showed that 25.3% experienced high food security, 29.1% had marginal food security, 13.9% had low food security, and 30.4% had very low food security. No statistically significant association was found between food security category and HbA1C or blood pressure. However, we did find that approximately 73% of patients experienced some degree of food insecurity.

Conclusions

Patients at our SRFC are ethnically and racially diverse, most have a high school education or less, and most have food insecurity. No association between food security category and HbA1C or blood pressure control was found. Providers should consider the degree of food insecurity and incorporate a culturally sensitive approach when making nutritional recommendations.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Adherence to Antihypertensive Medications

Importance

Nonadherence to antihypertensive medications is associated with uncontrolled blood pressure, higher mortality rates, and increased health care costs, and food insecurity is one of the modifiable medication nonadherence risk factors. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a social intervention program for addressing food insecurity, may help improve adherence to antihypertensive medications.

Objective

To evaluate whether receipt of SNAP benefits can modify the consequences of food insecurity on nonadherence to antihypertensive medications.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A retrospective cohort study design was used to assemble a cohort of antihypertensive medication users from the linked Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS)-National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) dataset for 2016 to 2017. The MEPS is a national longitudinal survey on verified self-reported prescribed medication use and health care access measures, and the NHIS is an annual cross-sectional survey of US households that collects comprehensive health information, health behavior, and sociodemographic data, including receipt of SNAP benefits. Receipt of SNAP benefits in the past 12 months and food insecurity status in the past 30 days were assessed through standard questionnaires during the study period. Data analysis was performed from March to December 2021.

Exposure

Status of SNAP benefit receipt.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome, nonadherence to antihypertensive medication refill adherence (MRA), was defined using the MEPS data as the total days' supply divided by 365 days for each antihypertensive medication class. Patients were considered nonadherent if their overall MRA was less than 80%. Food insecurity status in the 30 days prior to the survey was modeled as the effect modifier. Inverse probability of treatment (IPT) weighting was used to control for measured confounding effects of baseline covariates. A probit model was used, weighted by the product of the computed IPT weights and MEPS weights, to estimate the population average treatment effects (PATEs) of SNAP benefit receipt on nonadherence. A stratified analysis approach was used to assess for potential effect modification by food insecurity status.

Results

This analysis involved 6692 antihypertensive medication users, of whom 1203 (12.8%) reported receiving SNAP benefits and 1338 (14.8%) were considered as food insecure. The mean (SD) age was 63.0 (13.3) years; 3632 (51.3%) of the participants were women and 3060 (45.7%) were men. Although SNAP was not associated with nonadherence to antihypertensive medications in the overall population, it was associated with a 13.6-percentage point reduction in nonadherence (PATE, -13.6 [95% CI, -25.0 to -2.3]) among the food-insecure subgroup but not among their food-secure counterparts.

Conclusions and Relevance

This analysis of a national observational dataset suggests that patients with hypertension who receive SNAP benefits may be less likely to become nonadherent to antihypertensive medication, especially if they are experiencing food insecurity. Further examination of the role of SNAP as a potential intervention for preventing nonadherence to antihypertensive medications through prospectively designed interventional studies or natural experiment study designs is needed.

Dietary Sodium and Potassium Patterns in Adults with Food Insecurity in the Context of Hypertension Risk

Background

Food insecurity (FIS), characterized by the lack of consistent access to nutritious food, is associated with hypertension and adverse health outcomes. Despite evidence of a higher prevalence of hypertension (HTN) in patients living with FIS, there is limited data exploring the underlying mechanism.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 17,015 adults aged 18-65 years, using dietary recall data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2011-2018). Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to examine the association between FIS, HTN, and dietary sodium and potassium levels.

Results

Individuals reporting FIS had a significantly lower mean intake of potassium (2.5±0.03 gm) compared to those in food-secure households (2.74±0.02 gm). No significant difference was found in the mean dietary sodium intake based on food security status. Non-Hispanic Black participants showed a high prevalence of HTN and FIS. While Non-Hispanic White and Hispanic participants had a high prevalence of FIS, it did not appear to influence their risk of HTN.

Conclusions

Adults with FIS and HTN were more likely to report a lower dietary potassium intake. Increasing access to healthy foods, particularly potassium-rich foods, for individuals facing FIS, may contribute to reducing the HTN prevalence and improving cardiovascular outcomes.

Socio-demographic, migratory and health-related determinants of food insecurity among Venezuelan migrants in Peru

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the factors associated with food insecurity (FI) among Venezuelan migrants residing in Peru. Secondarily, to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES).

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study based on secondary data analysis of the 2022 Venezuelan Population Residing in Peru Survey (ENPOVE-2022, from the Spanish acronym) was conducted. FI was measured with the FIES, whose properties were tested using the Rasch model. Multinomial logistic regression was performed to estimate relative prevalence ratios with their corresponding 95 % confidence intervals.

SETTING

This survey was conducted in February and March 2022 in the eight cities most populated by Venezuelan migrants and refugees in Peru.

PARTICIPANTS

Venezuelan migrants and refugees over the age of 18 years living in Peru.

RESULTS

A total of 7727 participants were included. Rasch reliability was adequate (0·73). The prevalence of mild, moderate and severe FI was 36·71 %, 31·14 % and 10·48 %, respectively. Being aged 25-34 and 35-44 years, unemployed, uninsured, having no formal education or secondary, illegal status, living in a dwelling with 2-4 and more than 4 people, presenting one or more than one chronic disease, residing in Peru for 0-6 months and perceived discrimination were associated with a higher probability of moderate FI. Furthermore, having secondary education, being unemployed, uninsured, never married, illegal, residing in Tumbes, presenting one or more than one chronic disease and perceived discrimination were significantly associated with severe FI.

CONCLUSION

Four out of ten Venezuelan migrants residing in Peru presented moderate to severe FI. The FIES showed adequate psychometric properties. Differences in the socio-demographic, health and migratory factors associated with FI levels were found. Inter-sectoral and multi-sectoral interventions are needed and should be focused on addressing the determinants of FI.

Examining the disparities: A cross-sectional study of socio-economic factors and food insecurity in Togo

BACKGROUND

Despite many interventions, Togo continues to have one of the highest rates of poverty and food insecurity in the sub-Saharan African region. Currently there is no systematic analysis of the factors associated with household food-insecurity in this country. This study aimed at exploring the factors associated with food insecurity in Togo.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study that used data from five waves (2014 to 2018) of the Gallup World Poll (GWP) for Togo. Sample size included 4754 participants, aged 15 and above. Food insecurity was measured using the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES) questionnaire as per the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) guidelines. Our outcome variable was food insecurity, categorized as: 1) food secure (FIES score = 0-3), moderately food insecure (FIES score = 4-6), and severely food insecure (FIES score = 7-8). We did descriptive and multinomial regressions to analyze data using Stata version 16.

RESULTS

Between 2014 and 2018, the percentage of severe food insecurity fluctuated-42.81% in 2014, 37.79% in 2015, 38.98% in 2016, 45.41% in 2017, and 33.84% in 2018. Whereas that of moderate food insecurity increased from 23.55% to 27.33% except for 2016 and 2017 where the percentage increased to 32.33% and 27.46% respectively. In the logistic regression analysis, we found that respondents with lower than elementary education had a higher relative risk ratio of moderate (RRR = 1.45,95%CI = 1.22-1.72) and severe (RRR = 1.72, 95%CI = 1.46-2.02) food insecurity compared to those with secondary and higher education. Rural respondents had higher RRR of severe food insecurity (RRR = 1.37, 95%CI = 1.16-1.62) compared to those who lived in the urban areas. Compared with those in the richest wealth quintile, respondents in the poorest wealth quintile had 2.21 times higher RRR of moderate (RRR = 2.21, 95%CI = 1.69-2.87) and 3.58 times higher RRR of severe (RRR = 3.58, 95%CI = 2.81-4.55) food insecurity.

CONCLUSION

About two-thirds of participants experienced some level of food insecurity in 2018. Lower levels of education, rural residency and poorer household wealth index areas were associated with a higher risk of food insecurity. National food security programs should focus on promoting education and improving socioeconomic condition of people especially in rural areas.

Food is medicine intervention shows promise for engaging patients attending a safety-net hospital in the Southeast United States

Public health organizations, including the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the American Hospital Association, recognize the importance of achieving food and nutrition security to improve health outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and advance health equity. In response, federal, state, and private agencies are increasingly seeking to fund healthcare-based interventions to address food insecurity among patients. Simultaneously, nutrition-based interventions targeting chronic diseases have grown across the United States as part of the broader "Food is Medicine" movement. Few studies have examined the successes, challenges, and limitations of such efforts. As Food is Medicine programs continue to expand, identifying common approaches, metrics, and outcomes will be imperative for ensuring program success, replicability, and sustainability. Beginning in 2020, the Food as Medicine (FAM) program, a multipronged, collaborative intervention at Grady Health System has sought to combat food insecurity and improve patient health by leveraging community resources, expertise, and existing partnerships. Using this program as a case study, we (1) outline the collaborative development of the FAM program; (2) describe and characterize patient engagement in the initial 2 years; and (3) summarize strengths and lessons learned for future hospital-based food and nutrition programming. As this case study illustrates, the Food as Medicine program provides a novel model for building health equity through food within healthcare organizations.

Risk Factors for Food Insecurity among Older Adults in India: Study Based on LASI, 2017-2018

BACKGROUND

Food security is linked to the nutritional status and well-being of older adults. India is a rapidly aging nation that ranks highly on the 2022 Global Hunger Index. This paper examines the prevalence and risk factors of food insecurity in India's older population.

METHODS

We used data from the 2017-2018 Longitudinal Aging Study in India. The sample size was 31,532 adults aged 60 years and above. Food insecurity was measured using a four-item version of the Food Insecurity Experience scale. Multivariable logistic regressions using individual-level weights were implemented to assess the risk factors of food insecurity.

RESULTS

The prevalence of food insecurity was 10.5% in the weighted sample. Sociodemographic factors were important in explaining food insecurity. Older adults who were male, younger, lowly educated, socially disadvantaged, in rural areas, and outside the Northern region were most vulnerable to food insecurity, controlling for various confounders. Additionally, low economic status, no occupational pension, currently working, social isolation, physical impairment, functional disabilities, poor self-rated health, and arthritis were associated with an increased risk of food insecurity.

CONCLUSIONS

More active food assistance programs catering to older adults and a better provision of economic and social security are warranted to establish a food-secure environment for rapidly aging India.

Food Insecurity and Blood Pressure in a Multiethnic Population

Food insecurity is a social determinant of health and is increasingly recognized as a risk factor for hypertension. Native Hawaiians bear a disproportionate burden of hypertension and known risk factors. Despite this, the relative effects of food insecurity and financial instability on blood pressure have yet to be investigated in this population. This study examines the relative effects of food insecurity and financial instability on blood pressure, controlling for potential confounders in a multiethnic sample. Participants (n = 124) were recruited from a U.S. Department of Agriculture-funded study called the Children's Healthy Living Center of Excellence. Biometrics (i.e., blood pressure, weight, and height) were measured. Demographics, physical activity, diet, psychosocial variables, food insecurity, and financial instability were assessed via self-report questionnaires. Hierarchical linear regression models were conducted. Model 1, which included sociodemographic variables and known biological risk factors, explained a small but significant amount of variance in systolic blood pressure. Model 2 added physical activity and daily intake of fruit, fiber, and whole grains, significantly improving the model. Model 3 added financial instability and food insecurity, further improving the model (R2 = 0.37, F = 2.67, p = 0.031). Food insecurity, female sex, and BMI were significantly and independently associated with increased systolic blood pressure. These results suggest a direct relationship between food insecurity and systolic blood pressure, which persisted after controlling for physical activity, consumption of fruits, fiber, and whole grains, and BMI. Efforts to reduce food insecurity, particularly among Native Hawaiians, may help reduce hypertension in this high-risk population.

Social Determinants, Blood Pressure Control, and Racial Inequities in Childbearing Age Women With Hypertension, 2001 to 2018

Background Hypertension is an important modifiable risk factor of serious maternal morbidity and mortality. Social determinants of health (SDoH) influence hypertension outcomes and may contribute to racial and ethnic differences in hypertension control. Our objective was to assess SDoH and blood pressure (BP) control by race and ethnicity in US women of childbearing age with hypertension. Methods and Results We studied women (aged 20-50 years) with hypertension (systolic BP ≥140 mm Hg or diastolic BP ≥90 mm Hg or use of antihypertensive medication) in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 2001 to 2018. SDoH and BP control (systolic BP <140 mm Hg and diastolic BP <90 mm Hg) were examined by race and ethnicity (White race, Black race, Hispanic ethnicity, and Asian race). Using multivariable logistic regression, odds of uncontrolled BP by race and ethnicity were modeled, adjusting for SDoH, health factors, and modifiable health behaviors. Responses on hunger and affording food determined food insecurity status. Across women of childbearing age with hypertension (N=1293), 59.2% were White race, 23.4% were Black race, 15.8% were Hispanic ethnicity, and 1.7% were Asian race. More Hispanic and Black women experienced food insecurity than White women (32% and 25% versus 13%; both P<0.001). After SDoH, health factor, and modifiable health behavior adjustment, Black women maintained higher odds of uncontrolled BP than White women (odds ratio, 2.31 [95% CI, 1.08-4.92]), whereas Asian and Hispanic women showed no difference. Conclusions We identified racial inequities in uncontrolled BP and food insecurity among women of childbearing age with hypertension. Further exploration beyond the SDoH measured is needed to understand the inequity in hypertension control in Black women.

Food insecurity and health outcomes among community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults in India

The study assessed associations between food insecurity and mental, physical, and behavioural health outcomes in India. The study analysed national cross-sectional population-based data (N = 72,262;  ≥ 45 years) from in India in 2017-2018. The overall prevalence of food insecurity was 9.7%. Food insecurity was significantly positively associated with poor mental health [low life satisfaction (AOR: 2.75, 95% CI 2.35-3.23), low self-reported health (AOR: 1.61, 95% CI 1.11-1.42), insomnia symptoms (AOR: 1.64, 95% CI 1.45-1.85), depressive symptoms (AOR: 2.21, 95% CI 1.97-2.48), major depressive disorder (AOR: 2.37, 95% CI 2.03-2.77), Alzheimer's/dementia (AOR: 1.75, 95% CI 1.13-2.69), and poorer cognitive functioning (AOR: 0.68, 95% CI 0.49-0.93)], poor physical health [bone or joint disease (AOR: 1.18, 95% CI 1.04-1.34), angina (AOR: 1.80, 95% CI 1.58-2.06), underweight (AOR: 1.28, 95% CI 1.16-1.40), chronic lung disease (AOR: 1.22, 95% CI 1.03-1.45), and functional disability (AOR: 1.68, 95% CI 1.47-1.92)], and health risk behaviour [tobacco use (AOR: 1.13, 95% CI 1.01-1.25), heavy episodic drinking (AOR: 1.45, 95% CI 1.10-1.91) and physical inactivity (AOR: 1.42, 95% CI 1.21-1.67)]. Furthermore, food insecurity was negatively associated with overweight/obesity (AOR: 0.80, 95% CI 0.73-0.88). Food insecurity was associated with seven poor mental health indicators, five poor physical health conditions, and three health risk behaviours. Programmes and policies that improve food availability may help improve mental and physical health among middle-aged and older adults in India.

Association between Food Insecurity and Vision Impairment among Older Adults: A Pooled Analysis of Data from Six Low- and Middle-Income Countries

OBJECTIVES

Food insecurity has gained attention as a potential risk factor for vision impairment. However, research on this topic is limited. This objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between food insecurity and visual impairment among adults aged 50 years or older using data from six low-and middle-income countries (LMIC).

DESIGN AND SETTING

Data from the longitudinal Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE) were analyzed in a community-based, cross-sectional, and nationally representative sample.

PARTICIPANTS

Adults aged 50 years or older from six low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) including China, India, Mexico, Russia, South Africa, and Ghana.

MEASUREMENTS

Food insecurity was evaluated using a questionnaire comprised of two questions that addressed the frequency of eating inadequately and hunger due to a lack of food in last 12 months. Distance and/or near vision impairment was considered as a visual acuity score of less than 6/18 in the eye with better vision.

RESULTS

The analytical sample consisted of 29,804 adults (mean (SD) for age: 63.2 (9.54) years; 54.3% female). The prevalence of food insecurity, near vision and distance vision impairment in the sample was 16.4%, 36.7%, and 13.9%, respectively. Adjusted pooled analyses across countries revealed a significant association between food insecurity and distance (OR: 1.16; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.33; P=0.04, significant individually in India and South Africa) and near (OR: 1.12; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.22; P=0.01, significant individually in South Africa) vision impairment, and a between-country heterogeneity of 46.30% and 25.99%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Food insecurity was associated with both distance and near vision impairment in adults aged 50 years or older across six LMIC. Food policies and intervention programs targeted at decreasing food insecurity in vulnerable households are essential.

Social Determinants of Health and Hypertension Control in Adults with Medicaid

BACKGROUND

Social determinants of health (SDOH) are associated with cardiovascular disease, but little is known about mechanisms underlying those relationships. We hypothesized that SDOH would be associated with uncontrolled hypertension (HTN) in adults with Medicaid.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of adults in a Medicaid accountable care organization who had HTN diagnoses, received regular care at community health centers, and enrolled in a cohort study between December 2019 and December 2020. Baseline surveys collected demographics and SDOH, including food insecurity, unstable housing, cost-related medication underuse, and financial stress. Blood pressure (BP) measurements over 12 months after survey completion were obtained from the electronic health record. Participants were categorized as: uncontrolled HTN (mean systolic BP ≥ 140 mm Hg and/or mean diastolic BP ≥ 90 mm Hg), controlled HTN, or unknown HTN control (no BP documented). We examined the association of individual and cumulative (count, 0-4) SDOH with uncontrolled HTN and unknown HTN control using multivariable logistic regression adjusting for demographics, smoking, diabetes, and HTN medication.

RESULTS

Participants (n = 245) were mean (SD) age 51.3 (8.6) years, 66.1% female, 43.7% Hispanic, 34.3% White, and 18.0% Black. Overall, 58.0% had food insecurity, 38.0% had unstable housing, 29.4% had financial stress, and 20.0% reported cost-related medication underuse. BP was documented for 180 participants; 44 (24.4%) had uncontrolled HTN. In multivariable models, neither individual nor cumulative SDOH were associated with uncontrolled HTN or unknown HTN control.

CONCLUSIONS

In a Medicaid-insured population receiving care at community health centers, adverse SDOH were prevalent but were not associated with HTN control.

Gender Differences in the Relationship Between Food Insecurity and Body Mass Index Among Adults in the USA

BACKGROUND

In the USA, nearly 40% of adults ≥ 20 years have a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30, and 11% of households are reported as food insecure. In adults, evidence shows women are more likely than men to be food insecure. Among adults with food insecurity, differences in BMI exist between men and women with women reporting higher BMI. Factors associated with this difference in BMI between genders are less understood.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess gender differences in the relationship between food insecurity and BMI.

DESIGN

Hierarchical models were analyzed using a general linear model by entering covariates sequentially in blocks (demographics, lifestyle behaviors, comorbidities, and dietary variables) and stratified by gender.

PARTICIPANTS

The sample included 25,567 adults in the USA from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2005-2014.

MAIN MEASURES

The dependent variable was BMI, and food insecurity was the primary predictor.

KEY RESULTS

Approximately 51% of the sample was women. Food insecure women were significantly more likely to have higher BMI compared to food secure women in the fully adjusted model after controlling for demographics (β = 1.79; 95% CI 1.17, 2.41); demographic and lifestyle factors (β = 1.79; 95% CI 1.19, 2.38); demographic, lifestyle, and comorbidities (β = 1.21; 95% CI 0.65, 1.77); and demographic, lifestyle, comorbidities, and dietary variables (β = 1.23; 95% CI 0.67, 1.79). There were no significant associations between food insecure and food secure men in the fully adjusted model variables (β = 0.36; 95% CI - 0.26, 0.98).

CONCLUSION

In this sample of adults, food insecurity was significantly associated with higher BMI among women after adjusting for demographics, lifestyle factors, comorbidities, and dietary variables. This difference was not observed among men. More research is necessary to understand this relationship among women.

Identifying barriers, facilitators, and interventions to support healthy eating in pregnant women with or at risk for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

Background

Heart-healthy diets are important in the prevention and treatment of hypertension (HTN), including among pregnant women. Yet, the barriers, facilitators, and beliefs/preferences regarding healthy eating are not well described in this population.

Objective

To identify barriers and facilitators to healthy diet, examine the prevalence of food insecurity, and determine interest in specific healthy diet interventions.

Methods

Pregnant women, aged 18-50 years (N = 38), diagnosed with HTN, hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP), or risk factors for HDP, were recruited from a large academic medical center in central Massachusetts between June 2020 and June 2022. Participants completed an electronic survey using a 5-point Likert scale (strongly disagree to strongly agree).

Results

The mean age of participants was 31.6 years (SD 5.5) and 35.1% identified as Hispanic. Finances and time were major barriers to a healthy diet, reported by 42.1% and 28.9% of participants, respectively. Participants reported that their partners and families were supportive of healthy eating and preparing meals at home, though 30.0% of those with children considered their children's diet a barrier to preparing healthy meals. Additionally, 40.5% of the sample were considered food insecure. Everyone agreed that healthy diet was important for maternal and fetal health, and the most popular interventions were healthy ingredient grocery deliveries (89.4%) and meal deliveries (84.2%).

Conclusion

Time and cost emerged as major challenges to healthy eating in these pregnant women. Such barriers, facilitators, and preferences can aid in intervention development and policy-level changes to mitigate obstacles to healthy eating in this vulnerable patient population.

Risk of Food Insecurity in Young Adulthood and Longitudinal Changes in Cardiometabolic Health: Evidence from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health

BACKGROUND

Studies have demonstrated relations between food insecurity, the lack of access to enough nutritious food, and greater risk of diet-sensitive chronic diseases. However, most prior evidence relies on cross-sectional studies and self-reported disease.

OBJECTIVES

The objective was to assess the longitudinal relation between risk of food insecurity in young adulthood and changes in diet-sensitive cardiometabolic health outcomes across 10 y among non-Hispanic white, non-Hispanic black, American Indian or Alaska Native, and Hispanic adults.

METHODS

Data from the fourth and fifth waves (n = 3992) of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health were used. Measures included risk of food insecurity, body weight, diabetes, and sociodemographic characteristics. Body weight and diabetes were assessed with direct measures. Mixed-effects models assessed the association of risk of food insecurity with BMI, obesity, and diabetes while accounting for sociodemographic characteristics and the complex survey design.

RESULTS

Risk of food insecurity was associated with increases in BMI as well as incidence of obesity and diabetes from young to middle adulthood in unadjusted and adjusted models (all P < 0.01). In models stratified by race and ethnicity, the relations of risk of food insecurity with body weight outcomes and diabetes varied.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk of food insecurity in young adulthood was related to BMI and obesity during young and middle adulthood but not in changes over time. Risk of food insecurity in young adulthood related to an increased incidence of diabetes in middle adulthood. However, the relations among specific racial and ethnic groups were unclear. Estimates of the relation between food insecurity and cardiometabolic health outcomes within racial and ethnic groups experiencing the highest prevalence of these conditions should be refined.

[Influence of sleep and chrononutrition on hypertension and diabetes: a population-based study]

The objective is to evaluate the influence of sleep and chrononutrition on hypertension and diabetes in the adult population (18 years or older) in a municipality in Southern Brazil. This is a population-based cross-sectional study, developed in Criciúma, State of Santa Catarina, in 2019. The exposure variables were sleep duration and quality, and two of the main aspects of chrononutrition, the number of daily meals and the presence of breakfast. The outcomes studied were diabetes mellitus and systemic arterial hypertension. Crude and adjusted Poisson regression with robust variance was used to evaluate the associations between exposures and outcomes. For all analyses, the effect of the sample design was considered, and the significance level adopted was 5%. In total, 820 patients were evaluated. The prevalence of diabetes and hypertension was of 19.9% and 44.1%, respectively. Individuals with worse sleep quality had a higher prevalence of 33% for diabetes and 17% for hypertension, compared to those with good quality of sleep. Those who had four or more meals per day had a 16% lower prevalence of hypertension, when compared to those who had less than four meals. We concluded that the quality of sleep and the number of daily meals, a feeding behavior related to chrononutrition, were related to hypertension and diabetes. These results highlight the importance of public health actions that address new strategies for coping with these diseases focused on sleep quality and chrononutrition.

Increasing Access to Healthy Foods through Improving Food Environment: A Review of Mixed Methods Intervention Studies with Residents of Low-Income Communities

Food insecurity is a broad and serious public health issue in the United States, where many people are reporting lack of access to healthy foods. The reduced availability of healthy, affordable foods has led to increased consumption of energy-dense and nutrient-poor foods, resulting in increasing the risk for many chronic diseases such as obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Thus, identifying promising approaches to increase access to healthy foods through improving the food environment is of importance. The purpose of this review article is to highlight how the food environment affects directly a person’s food choices, and how to increase access to healthy foods through improving environmental approaches. The literature search was focused on finding different approaches to improve food security, primarily those with an impact on food environment. Overall, potential solutions were gathered through multilevel environmental approaches, including nutrition education and peer education, community-based participatory research, and policy changes in supplemental nutrition programs. A recommendation to reduce food insecurity is learning to create meals with a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables purchased from affordable farmers’ markets.

Food Insecurity and Vision Impairment Among Adults Age 50 and Older in the United States

PURPOSE

To test the hypothesis that food insecurity is associated with greater prevalence of vision impairment (VI).

DESIGN

Cross-sectional, nationally representative survey of US adults.

METHODS

Adults 50 years and older were included. Food security category (ie, full, marginal, low, or very low) was assessed by the US Household Food Security Survey Module. Objective presenting VI (PVI) and self-reported VI (SRVI) were assessed by examination and survey, respectively. Separate logistic regression models were constructed with food insecurity category as a predictor of PVI or SRVI. Models were adjusted for age, gender, race, education, income, cigarette use, alcohol use, body mass index, and physical activity. Age-stratified analyses (age 50 through 64 years vs 65 years and older) were also conducted.

RESULTS

Mean age of participants (n = 10,078) was 63.4 years; 8,518 (89.9%) were fully food secure, 1,033 (7.2%) had PVI, and 2,633 (20.1%) had SRVI. Compared with full food security, adjusting for sociodemographic confounders, those with marginal (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.31; 95% CI, 0.97-1.76), low (aOR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.17-2.23), and very low (aOR, 2.71; 95% CI, 1.75-4.20) food security had higher odds of PVI. Compared with full food security, those with marginal (aOR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.23-2.02), low (aOR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.11-1.92), and very low (aOR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.41-2.41) food security had higher odds of SRVI. The associations between food insecurity and PVI were greater in magnitude in those 65 years and older compared with those age 50 through 64 years.

CONCLUSIONS

In this nationally representative sample of US adults 50 years and older, severe food insecurity was increasingly associated with greater prevalence of VI in a dose-response manner.

High blood pressure in children and adolescents: current perspectives and strategies to improve future kidney and cardiovascular health

Hypertension is one of the most common causes of preventable death worldwide. The prevalence of pediatric hypertension has increased significantly in recent decades. The cause of this is likely multifactorial, related to increasing childhood obesity, high dietary sodium intake, sedentary lifestyles, perinatal factors, familial aggregation, socioeconomic factors, and ethnic blood pressure (BP) differences. Pediatric hypertension represents a major public health threat. Uncontrolled pediatric hypertension is associated with subclinical cardiovascular disease and adult-onset hypertension. In children with chronic kidney disease (CKD), hypertension is also a strong risk factor for progression to kidney failure. Despite these risks, current rates of pediatric BP screening, hypertension detection, treatment, and control remain suboptimal. Contributing to these shortcomings are the challenges of accurately measuring pediatric BP, limited access to validated pediatric equipment and hypertension specialists, complex interpretation of pediatric BP measurements, problematic normative BP data, and conflicting society guidelines for pediatric hypertension. To date, limited pediatric hypertension research has been conducted to help address these challenges. However, there are several promising signs in the field of pediatric hypertension. There is greater attention being drawn on the cardiovascular risks of pediatric hypertension, more emphasis on the need for childhood BP screening and management, new public health initiatives being implemented, and increasing research interest and funding. This article summarizes what is currently known about pediatric hypertension, the existing knowledge-practice gaps, and ongoing research aimed at improving future kidney and cardiovascular health.

Diet, Food Insecurity, and CVD Risk in Sexual and Gender Minority Adults

Purpose of Review

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) adults experience significant cardiovascular health disparities, yet little is known about diet and food insecurity in this population. This review summarizes recent literature on diet and food insecurity in SGM adults and their contribution to cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in this population.

Recent Findings

Existing evidence on diet and food insecurity disparities among SGM adults is inconclusive and research examining their link with CVD risk in SGM adults is limited. The majority of existing studies lack standardized and validated assessments of diet and food insecurity. Correlates of unhealthy diet and food insecurity among SGM adults are poorly understood.

Summary

Research examining the associations between diet and food insecurity with CVD risk in SGM adults is limited. Longitudinal studies are needed to investigate whether diet and food insecurity contribute to the cardiovascular health disparities observed in SGM adults.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11883-022-00991-2.

Food insecurity, type 2 diabetes, and hyperglycaemia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

Food insecurity (FIS) is a major public health issue with possible implications for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the association between FIS and T2DM.

METHODS

We performed a systematic search in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. All cross-sectional, peer-reviewed studies investigating the link between FIS and T2DM were included. Population characteristics, study sizes, covariates, T2DM diagnoses, and diabetes-related clinical measures such as fasting blood glucose (FBG) and HbA1c were extracted from each study. Outcomes were compared between food insecure and food secure individuals. Effect sizes were combined across studies using the random effect model.

RESULTS

Forty-nine peer-reviewed studies investigating the link between FIS and T2DM were identified (n = 258,250). Results of meta-analyses showed no association between FIS and clinically determined T2DM either through FBG or HbA1c: OR = 1.22 [95%CI: 0.96, 1.55], Q(df = 5) = 12.5, I2  = 60% and OR = 1.21 [95%CI: 0.95, 1.54], Q(df = 5) = 14; I2  = 71% respectively. Standardized mean difference (SMD) meta-analyses yielded no association between FIS and FBG or HbA1c: g = 0.06 [95%CI: -0.06, 0.17], Q(df = 5) = 15.8, I2  = 68%; g = 0.11 [95% CI: -0.02, 0.25], Q(df = 7) = 26.8, I2  = 74% respectively. For children, no association was found between FIS and HbA1c: g = 0.06 [95%CI: 0.00, 0.17], Q(df = 2) = 5.7, I2  = 65%.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite multiple proposed mechanisms linking FIS to T2DM, integration of the available literature suggests FIS is not associated with clinically determined T2DM or increases in FBG or HbA1c among adult patients.

Association between food insecurity and key metabolic risk factors for diet-sensitive non-communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

In previous studies, food insecurity has been hypothesised to promote the prevalence of metabolic risk factors on the causal pathway to diet-sensitive non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the associations between food insecurity and key metabolic risk factors on the causal pathway to diet-sensitive NCDs and estimate the prevalence of key metabolic risk factors among the food-insecure patients in sub-Saharan Africa. This study was guided by the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination (CRD) guidelines for undertaking systematic reviews in healthcare. The following databases were searched for relevant literature: PubMed, EBSCOhost (CINAHL with full text, Health Source - Nursing, MedLine). Epidemiological studies published between January 2015 and June 2019, assessing the associations between food insecurity and metabolic risk outcomes in sub-Saharan African populations, were selected for inclusion. Meta-analysis was performed with DerSimonian-Laird's random-effect model at 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The I² statistics reported the degree of heterogeneity between studies. Publication bias was assessed by visual inspection of the funnel plots for asymmetry, and sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the meta-analysis results' stability. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) - Version 2018 was used to appraise included studies critically. The initial searches yielded 11,803 articles, 22 cross-sectional studies were eligible for inclusion, presenting data from 26,609 (46.8% males) food-insecure participants, with 11,545 (42.1% males) reported prevalence of metabolic risk factors. Of the 22 included studies, we identified strong evidence of an adverse association between food insecurity and key metabolic risk factors for diet-sensitive NCDs, based on 20 studies. The meta-analysis showed a significantly high pooled prevalence estimate of key metabolic risk factors among food-insecure participants at 41.8% (95% CI: 33.2% to 50.8%, I² = 99.5% p-value < 0.00) derived from 14 studies. The most prevalent type of metabolic risk factors was dyslipidaemia 27.6% (95% CI: 6.5% to 54.9%), hypertension 24.7% (95% CI: 15.6% to 35.1%), and overweight 15.8% (95% CI: 10.6% to 21.7%). Notably, the prevalence estimates of these metabolic risk factors were considerably more frequent in females than males. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, exposure to food insecurity was adversely associated with a wide spectrum of key metabolic risk factors, such as obesity, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, underweight, and overweight. These findings highlight the need to address food insecurity as an integral part of diet-sensitive NCDs prevention programmes. Further, these findings should guide recommendations on the initiation of food insecurity status screening and treatment in clinical settings as a basic, cost-effective tool in the practice of preventive medicine in sub-Saharan Africa.PROSPERO registration number: PROSPERO 2019 CRD42019136638.