A recent study published in JAMA Cardiology sheds light on the significant association between food insecurity and the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in US adults. This research has important implications for healthcare providers, highlighting the need to recognize and address food insecurity as a potential risk factor for CVD, particularly among vulnerable populations.
The study, a prospective cohort analysis of 3,616 adults participating in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study, examined the link between food insecurity and incident CVD over a follow-up period from 2000 to August 31, 2020.
Key Findings
The study’s findings revealed a strong association between food insecurity and an increased risk of CVD. Key results include:
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During the study period, 255 CVD events occurred: 57 events (11%) in participants with food insecurity and 198 events (6%) in food-secure participants.
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After adjusting for age, sex, and field center, food insecurity was associated with a 90% increased risk of incident CVD (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.90; 95% CI, 1.41-2.56).
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Even after further adjusting for socioeconomic factors such as education, marital status, and usual source of medical care, the association remained significant, with food insecurity associated with a 47% increased risk of CVD (aHR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.08-2.01).
These statistics underscore the importance of food insecurity as an independent risk factor for CVD, even when considering other known socioeconomic determinants of health.
Disparities and Vulnerable Populations
The study also highlighted disparities in food insecurity among different populations. Notably, individuals with food insecurity were more likely to self-identify as Black and report lower educational attainment.
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Of the 3,616 participants, 1,696 (47%) self-identified as Black.
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529 participants (15%) had food insecurity at baseline.
These numbers emphasize the disproportionate burden of food insecurity on Black individuals and those with lower socioeconomic status, who may already be at higher risk for CVD.
Implications for Healthcare Providers
These findings have several important implications for healthcare providers in their clinical practice:
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Screening for Food Insecurity: Healthcare providers should consider incorporating routine screening for food insecurity into their practice, particularly when assessing patients at risk for CVD. Simple screening tools can help identify individuals who may be experiencing food insecurity and allow for appropriate intervention.
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Risk Assessment: Food insecurity should be recognized as an important social determinant of health and a significant risk factor for CVD. When evaluating a patient’s CVD risk, providers should consider their food security status alongside traditional risk factors.
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Patient Education and Counseling: Providers should educate patients about the link between food insecurity and CVD and provide counseling on strategies to improve both food security and cardiovascular health. This may include referrals to community resources and support programs.
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Advocacy and Collaboration: Healthcare providers can play a role in advocating for policies and interventions that address food insecurity at the community and societal levels. Collaboration with community organizations, public health agencies, and policymakers can help to create sustainable solutions.
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Tailored Interventions: Given the disparities in food insecurity, healthcare providers should tailor their interventions to meet the specific needs of vulnerable populations, such as Black individuals and those with low socioeconomic status. Culturally sensitive approaches and community-based programs may be particularly effective.
The Need for Further Research
The authors of the study emphasize the need for further research to determine whether interventions aimed at reducing food insecurity can effectively alleviate CVD morbidity and mortality in US individuals. Studies that evaluate the impact of food security interventions on cardiovascular outcomes are crucial for informing clinical practice and public health policy.
Final Notes
This study provides compelling evidence of the association between food insecurity and incident CVD. By recognizing food insecurity as a significant risk factor and taking proactive steps to address it, healthcare providers can play a crucial role in promoting cardiovascular health and reducing health disparities in their communities.