Understanding food insecurity and its relationship with health, psychosocial, and behavioral variables among the Latine population in the North Carolina High Country.

BACKGROUND

The Latine population is at least two times more likely to be food insecure compared to the non-Hispanic white population. Challenges in accessing sufficient, culturally preferred, and healthy foods, particularly for those in rural areas, include limited financial resources and transportation difficulties. Additionally, this population commonly has low enrollment in food assistance programs, an effective method in reducing food insecurity (FI). Obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and depression are frequently associated with FI; the Latine population carries a disproportionately high burden or risk of these diseases.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to understand the prevalence of FI, FI as a predictor and outcome variable, and health conditions associated with FI among the Latine population in rural, western North Carolina.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional survey in community settings using purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariable binary logistic regressions.

RESULTS

Among 193 participants, 47% reported FI. Those identifying as food insecure were more likely to report a household income under $35,000 (OR 5.49, 95% CI: 1.37, 22.06), low educational attainment (OR 3.85, 95% CI: 1.23, 12.04), and being unmarried (OR 3.53, 95% CI: 1.01, 12.20). When modeled as a predictor, FI was associated with higher odds of reporting symptoms of CVD (OR 3.95, 95% CI: 1.43, 12.14) and depression (OR 5.01, 95% CI: 1.45, 21.52).

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates a high prevalence of FI and significant relationships between FI and a myriad of variables in a region of rural, western NC and contributes to a dearth of literature about the experience of FI among the Latine population. Understanding the predictors of FI in this context can better support efforts to increase food security among this population.