Health Disparities continue in America

I am always reading about new studies that I already knew about without having to be researcher. But seeing a study on paper can solidify your beliefs. Well, this "new" study is one of those moments for me.

From Kaiser Health Disparities Report:

People who live in poorer neighborhoods are less likely to have access to supermarkets that sell a variety of fresh produce and other healthy foods, according to the analysis. Researchers noted that supermarkets are more likely to sell a wide variety of healthy foods at lower prices, while convenience stores usually sell less healthy food at higher prices. Studies included in the analysis found that:

1. The likelihood that blacks would meet guidelines for fruit and vegetable consumption increased by 32% with every additional supermarket located near their home;

2. People who have a supermarket in their neighborhood have a reduced risk for obesity, while easy access to convenience stores increased obesity risk;

3. Predominately black neighborhoods had half as many supermarket chains as predominantly white neighborhoods, while Hispanic neighborhoods had one-third as many supermarket chains as white neighborhoods;

4. Healthy foods such as fresh produce, low fat dairy foods, high fiber breads and lean meats were more accessible and of higher quality in white neighborhoods than in non-white neighborhoods; and

5. Rural communities tend to have worse access to supermarkets.

Okay, so what else is new? I grew up in a predominately black community, and I can tell you first hand that I still see more liquor stores and fast food joints than legit supermarkets in that same community. Now that I am older, wiser and appreciative of good health and wellness, I see the lacking access to healthy foods in the community as detrimental problem. So much so that I really want to learn more about how to better report on health disparities. I just so happen to be attending a conference this week on this very issue. I plan on blogging about what is being said and done about this from the experts.

Stay tuned.