Abstract

Abstract

Food insecurity is a preventable socioeconomic issue that increases an individual’s risk of obesity, hypertension, and Type II diabetes, along with an assortment of other physical and mental health conditions. Many of the most at-risk individuals for food insecurity are also the most underinsured. They lack consistent, preventive health care, which most often leads to an increased use of emergency departments. The associated poor health outcomes affect millions of Americans annually.

My research will show that reducing food insecurity can improve health care outcomes and reduce overall health care spending. It will demonstrate the underlying causes of food insecurity and the relationship to health care access. The research will define measures to improve access to care, as well as steps to eliminate food insecurity among households. The research will also address other socioeconomic factors that contribute to food insecurity.

I will examine how government at the local and state level, as well as the federal government can enact policies to support individuals in food insecure households, as well as steps the individual can take to promote health. Understanding the link between preventable disease and food insecurity will impact future planning for the prevention of food insecurity and the health of Americans.

Keywords: food insecurity, reducing food insecurity, health care access, preventable disease

Year Manuscript Completed

Fall 2021

Senior Project Advisor

George Barton

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Health Care Administration

Document Type

Thesis - Murray State Access only

Download

  Contact Author

Share

COinS