Oral

The concept of "food deserts"--neighborhoods that lack ready access to fresh, healthy foods--and their relationship to obesity and diet-related diseases is complex and often misunderstood. Recent studies of food desert and the news reporting that accompanied them has sparked controversy among health researchers and healthy food advocates. This session will explore the complexity of factors surrounding neighborhood food environments, healthy food access, consumer choices, and health outcomes, reporting on new research from California, New England, and New Jersey. Special attention will be given to policy proposals designed to expand healthy food access and improve public health.

Session Objectives: 1. Discuss the linkages between neighborhood food access, diet, and obesity. 2. Describe the complexity of factors that may determine a population's access to healthy food. 3. Identify public policies that can expand healthy food access and improve health outcomes.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)