Food Insecurity and Chronic Kidney Disease: Considerations for Practitioners

J Ren Nutr. 2023 Sep;33(5):691-697. doi: 10.1053/j.jrn.2023.06.001. Epub 2023 Jun 17.

Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has exacerbated existing health disparities related to food security status. Emerging literature suggests individuals with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) who are also food insecure have a greater likelihood of disease progression compared to food secure individuals. However, the complex relationship between CKD and food insecurity (FI) is understudied relative to other chronic conditions. The purpose of this practical application article is to summarize the recent literature on the social-economic, nutritional, to care through which FI may negatively impact health outcomes in individuals with CKD. While several studies have reported on the cross-sectional prevalence of FI among persons with CKD, literature is lacking about the severity and duration of exposure to FI on CKD outcomes. Future research is needed to better understand how FI impairs CKD care, nutritional and structural barriers that impact disease prevention and disease progression, and effective strategies to support patients.

Keywords: chronic kidney disease; disparities; food insecurity; nutrition; nutrition security; socioeconomic factors.

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19* / complications
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Disease Progression
  • Food Insecurity
  • Food Supply
  • Humans
  • Renal Insufficiency, Chronic* / epidemiology
  • Socioeconomic Factors