Addressing Dietary-Related Health Disparities in Underserved Communities: Outcomes From a 24-Month Pilot,Subsidized Food Prescription Program in the Mississippi Delta
Restricted accessResearch articleFirst published online October, 2025
Addressing Dietary-Related Health Disparities in Underserved Communities: Outcomes From a 24-Month Pilot,Subsidized Food Prescription Program in the Mississippi Delta
Background: This study examines the outcomes of the 24-months Charleston FoodRx food prescription program implemented in rural Mississippi to address dietary-related health disparities.
Purpose: Examine changes in participant produce consumption, food seccurity, and anthropometrics over a 24-month period.
Research Design: A one-group, repeated measures design, was utilized to assess changes in produce consumption, food security, and anthropometric data from baseline.
Study Sample: A total of 55 households completed the study.
Data analyses: longitudinal and regression analyses were conducted to identify significant change over time.
Results: Results indicated an increase in weekly produce consumption, and a decrease in the prevalence of food insecurity over the follow-up periods. Among adults, statistically significant reductions in weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and triglyceride levels were observed at the 24-month endpoint.
Conclusions: These outcomes support the efficacy of food prescription programs in promoting healthier dietary behaviors and improving health-related outcomes. The study provides valuable insights into the impact of such interventions on dietary-related health disparities in underserved communities. However, more robust research is needed to maximize the potential of these interventions.
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