Healthy stores: The 4Ps of food, alcohol, and tobacco in new orleans, la

Background: The distribution and product offerings at retail outlets can influence food, alcohol and tobacco consumption, which can in turn affect the health of individuals in a community. For instance, the limited availability of nutritious foods in conjunction with a high density of alcohol and tobacco outlets in low-income neighborhoods may contribute to disparities in unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, and chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This research will conduct a census of all retail outlets to understand the relationship between the 4Ps (product, placement, pricing and promotion) of food, alcohol and tobacco products and neighborhood characteristics, including income and race, in New Orleans. Methods: Three unique data collection modules are being used to conduct store assessments of the 4Ps of food, alcohol and tobacco. Upon completion of the store assessments, U.S. census data will be used to map and analyze the availability, pricing, placement and promotion of these three consumer products – both within and between stores. While similar methodologies were employed in previous research, the comprehensive approach to retail assessment and the use of census data is novel to this project. Results: While the study is just underway, preliminary results suggest a difference between small food stores and full service grocery stores. The final results will yield novel data on the relationship between the 4Ps of various health-related consumer goods. The data will inform policy makers and researchers about the retail environment in New Orleans and provide information to supplement the existing discussion regarding “healthy stores.” Discussion: Collectively gathering information on the food, alcohol and tobacco availability provides a robust picture of the retail environment in a community. Such information can inform policy decisions that promote healthy behaviors by restricting the marketing and availability of unhealthy products while promoting “healthy stores.”