Diabetes Risk and Obesity in Food-Insecure Households
Author Information
Author(s): Holben David H, Pheley Alfred M
Primary Institution: Ohio University
Hypothesis
This study assesses the relationship of food security to clinical measurements of several chronic health risks among residents in rural Appalachian Ohio.
Conclusion
Participants from food-insecure households had higher BMIs, rates of obesity, and self-reported rates of diabetes than those from food-secure households.
Supporting Evidence
- Obesity was greater among individuals from food-insecure households (48.1%) than among those from food-secure households (35.1%).
- Individuals with an HbA1c level of higher than 7% were more likely to come from food-insecure households than those with levels of less than 7%.
- The prevalence of food insecurity among this sample was more than 2.5 times the U.S. average rate in 1999.
Takeaway
People who don't have enough food are more likely to be overweight and have diabetes compared to those who do have enough food.
Methodology
The study used surveys and clinical health assessments to gather data on food security and health measurements.
Potential Biases
The sampling strategy may introduce bias as it does not reflect the general population of the region.
Limitations
The study used a convenience sample, which may not be representative of the broader population.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 2580 adults aged 18 and older, with a higher representation of women and a diverse racial composition.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P < .001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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