Examining the Influence of Food Insecurity on Perinatal Health Outcomes Among Black Birthing Individuals in the U.S.: A Systematic Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND

Food insecurity disproportionately affects Black households in the United States (US) and is linked to adverse perinatal health outcomes. Addressing food insecurity is crucial for improving maternal and infant health outcomes, especially among Black mothers. This scoping review explores the impact of food insecurity and low food access (i.e., food deserts) on various maternal health outcomes during the perinatal period among Black women.

METHODS

Using the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines for scoping reviews, literature searches were conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases from January 2013 to January 2023. Eligible studies focused on Black women in the US experiencing food insecurity and reporting maternal health outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 154 initially identified studies, nine met the inclusion criteria. Findings reveal diverse associations between food insecurity and perinatal outcomes among Black women, including gestational diabetes, breastfeeding practices, and maternal anemia. While some studies demonstrated direct links, others explored stressors associated with food insecurity during pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

The current literature suggests that food insecurity exacerbates health disparities among Black birthing individuals, contributing to adverse perinatal health outcomes. Addressing food insecurity is crucial for improving maternal health equity. It is recommended that food insecurity screening and tailored support services be integrated into prenatal care services. To promote health equity, public health policies should prioritize interventions targeting food insecurity among Black birthing individuals and communities. Collaborative efforts between legislators, providers, educators, researchers, and communities are needed to implement comprehensive interventions addressing the systemic inequities from which food insecurity stems, to achieve health and nutritional equity for all birthing individuals.