Impact of Food Environments on Obesity Rates: A State-Level Analysis.
Publication Title
J Obes
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2023
Keywords
Humans; Cross-Sectional Studies; Obesity; Food; Surveys and Questionnaires; Food Supply; washington; olympia; psph
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Limited access to healthy food in areas that are predominantly food deserts or food swamps may be associated with obesity. Other unhealthy behaviors may also be associated with obesity and poor food environments.
METHODS: We calculated Modified Retail Food Environment Index (mRFEI) to assess food retailers. Using data collected from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey, the NJ Department of Health (NJDOH), and the US Census Bureau, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis of the interaction of obesity with the food environment and assessed smoking, leisure-time physical activity (LPA), and poor sleep.
RESULTS: There were 17.9% food deserts and 9.3% food swamps in NJ. There was a statistically significant negative correlation between mRFEI and obesity rate (Pearson's
CONCLUSION: Obesity tracks with food deserts and especially food swamps. It is also correlated with other unhealthy behaviors (smoking, LPA, and poor sleep).
Area of Special Interest
Digestive Health
Specialty/Research Institute
Gastroenterology
Specialty/Research Institute
Population Health
Specialty/Research Institute
Nutrition
