Food insecurity is a significant social determinant of health, and its impact on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk is profound. A study published in JAMA Cardiology reveals that individuals experiencing food insecurity are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular conditions. The study, which analyzed data from the CARDIA study, found that 15% of participants reported food insecurity at baseline, with a notable prevalence among Black individuals and those with lower education levels.
The study tracked 3,616 adults with preexisting cardiovascular conditions over two decades, noting 255 cardiovascular events. Those experiencing food insecurity had a higher incidence of these events, with 11% of food-insecure individuals affected compared to 6% of those who were food secure. This disparity underscores the critical role that access to nutritious food plays in maintaining heart health.
Socioeconomic factors exacerbate these health disparities, as individuals with limited access to healthy foods are more likely to suffer from heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. The study calls for targeted interventions to address food insecurity and its associated health risks, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies that include policy changes and community support.
By addressing food insecurity, healthcare providers can help mitigate the risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly in minority communities disproportionately affected by these disparities. This approach not only improves individual health outcomes but also promotes equity in healthcare access and quality.
See: “Food insecurity linked with increased cardiovascular disease risk” (March 17, 2025)
