Objectively measured chronic disease risk among food pantry patrons.

Abstract

This cross-sectional, observational study examined the prevalence of objectively measured chronic disease risk factors among a diverse group of food pantry patrons. Public health nurses performed biometric screenings in community settings for 1,685 unduplicated adults attending food pantries. Over three fourths of participants (81.1%) were overweight or obese. High cholesterol and high blood pressure were detected in 38.4% and 37.7% of participants, respectively. Over half (58%) of the participants were referred to a local community health clinic for follow-up services. Interventions should target food pantry patrons to reduce the prevalence of chronic disease conditions among this vulnerable population.