Access to Healthy Foods and Its Impact on Diet
Author Information
Author(s): Baker Elizabeth A, Schootman Mario, Barnidge Ellen, Kelly Cheryl
Primary Institution: Saint Louis University School of Public Health
Hypothesis
Do all communities have equal access to foods that enable individuals to make healthy dietary choices?
Conclusion
Without access to healthy food choices, individuals cannot make positive changes to their diets.
Supporting Evidence
- Mixed-race or white high-poverty areas and all African American areas were less likely to have access to healthy foods.
- Individuals in lower-income communities often lack transportation to access healthier food options.
- Access to supermarkets is significantly lower in predominantly African American neighborhoods.
Takeaway
Some neighborhoods have more fast food places and fewer grocery stores, making it hard for people to eat healthy.
Methodology
Audits of supermarkets and fast food restaurants were conducted to assess food availability and location using census data.
Potential Biases
Potential respondent bias in fast food audits may affect results.
Limitations
The study is limited to an urban midwestern region and may not represent other areas.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on predominantly white and African American populations in St. Louis, MO.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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