A pilot study examining health outcomes and quality of life among adults with food insecurity

Food insecurity continues to be a critical social determinant of health in the United States. Existing research on food insecurity within clinical populations has focused on specific health conditions. However, this approach may limit the applicability of findings to broader patient groups. In the current study, adult patients ( N = 104) identified as food insecure by a medical provider completed measures of food insecurity, mental health, and quality of life. Anthropometric measurements and blood pressure were also collected. After adjusting for sociodemographic factors, multiple linear regression analyses determined greater food insecurity was associated with higher levels of anxiety and depression. There was not a significant effect of food insecurity on quality of life, BMI, systolic blood pressure, or diastolic blood pressure. Results show that adults receiving medical care may be especially vulnerable to the effects of food insecurity, where there can be detrimental effects on mental health.