From field to fitness: Aligning farm policy with health policy to improve community nutrition and public health

Background: The Mississippi Delta highlights a paradox of high obesity and food insecurity co-existing in an abundant agricultural environment. Evidence shows improper nutrition increases early morbidity and mortality risks. In 2012, the Federal Farm Bill is scheduled for reauthorization. This research determines whether agricultural policy is aligned with health policy. Methods: Qualitative and qualitative analyses including systematic literature review, stakeholder scan, GIS mapping, and analyses of agriculture census. Results: Health experts emphasize eating more fruits & vegetables while limiting fats & sugars for optimal health & weight maintenance. However, adult eating patterns show significantly (p<.01) opposite trends. Childhood and adult obesity rates rose significantly (p<.01) over the past 30 years. Consumption of heavily subsidized crops has significantly (p<.01) increased over time. Federal polices create incentives for farmers to grow certain crops and penalize some areas of fruit and vegetable production. An increase of 7.4 million additional farm acres is needed to grow enough fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for Americans to consume amounts recommended. Discussion: Farm policy is not aligned with health policy. Certain policies outlined by the Farm Bill serve to discourage farmers from growing fruits and vegetables, while encouraging production of cheap fats and sweeteners. These and other farm bill policies may contribute to negative food consumption trends, driving high obesity rates. The affected acres could be used for growing fruits and vegetables if restrictions were lifted. Aligning Federal Farm Bill policies with health polices can influence community health upstream, particularly obesity, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes risks.