Recorded presentation

Sharon Morrison, MSPH, PhD, Department of Public Health Education, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, 437 HHP Building, P.O. Box 26170, Greensboro, NC 27402-6170, (336)334-3243, sdmorri2@uncg.edu and Lauren A. Haldeman, PhD, Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, P.O. Box 26170, Greensboro, NC 27402-6170.

Despite the cultural richness and strong work ethic immigrants add to US society, low literacy and English language levels and limited occupational skills challenge their cultural and economic adaptation. Additionally, the rising costs for food coupled with changes in welfare assistance eligibility criteria, have precipitated a steady increase in the numbers of food insecure immigrant households. Food insecure households have limited or uncertain availability of nutritionally adequate and safe foods. Members of these households share a limited ability to acquire nutritious foods in socially acceptable ways. Consequently, these households are at risk for poor dietary intake and nutritional health due to limited food choices. Limited data exist on the prevalence and impact of food insecurity on Latino immigrant households in North Carolina. We will discuss this data limitation and present the methodological challenges in measuring food insecurity levels and nutritional health among low-income immigrant households. The Cultural Adaptation Resources Model will be introduced as a framework for characterizing and reviewing resource networks to address food insecurity and nutritional health. We will conclude with recommendations for culturally and economically sensitive interventions and policies to better respond to the food insecurity needs of immigrants.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to,
• Define food insecurity, 2)Identify methodological challenges to measuring food insecurity, and 3)List two types of resource networks for improving food security among immigrant households

Keywords: Food Security, Immigrants

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Recorded presentation