Social Determinants of Health in Detroit
Food insecurity refers to a lack of reliable access to sufficient affordable, nutritious food for an active, healthy life.
It is a significant social determinant of health in Detroit, affecting both physical and mental well-being across the lifespan.
69% of Detroit households experience food insecurity
It’s a complex issue that involves not just the availability of food but also the affordability, accessibility, and quality of food options.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines a food desert as a census tract that has a poverty rate above 19 percent or a median family income lower than 81% where at least 500 people or 33% of the census tract live more than 1 mile from a supermarket or large grocery store.
But many full-service grocery stores are located in Detroit. The city has 83% of the Detroit Food Policy Council’s goal of 30,000 square feet of grocery store space per 10,000 people.
Instead, researchers point to Detroit as an example of a food swamp: an area where unhealthy food options, such as fast-food restaurants, convenience stores and liquor stores, outnumber healthy food options such as grocery stores and farmers’ markets.
These areas often lack access to affordable and nutritious food, making it more challenging for residents to maintain a healthy diet
Data sources: Detroit Food Map Initiative 07-25-23, United States Department of Agriculture Food Access Research Atlas. Shaded areas are defined by USDA as low-income tract with at least 500 people, or 33 percent of the population, living more than 1 mile (urban areas) or more than 10 miles (rural areas) from the nearest supermarket, supercenter, or large grocery store.
It might seem counterintuitive, but food insecurity and obesity are often linked.
While food insecurity suggests a lack of adequate food, it doesn’t necessarily mean a lack of calories. Limited access to nutritious food options can lead to reliance on cheap, calorie-dense foods, contributing to obesity. One study found that “food swamps” were better predictors of obesity than “food deserts” in the United States.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention define obesity as having a body mass index of 30 or greater. In Detroit. 41% of the population has obesity, higher than Michigan at 35%.
Obesity contributes to a slew of diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer. The excess weight strains the body’s vital systems, leading to increased inflammation and metabolic disruptions. And the psychosocial effects of obesity can impact mental health, leading to issues such as depression and anxiety.
Having insecure access to food impacts health in a variety of ways, both physical and psychological, including:
Vitamin & fiber deficiency Vegetables and fruits are excellent sources of vitamins and fiber essential for the growth, development, and repair of all body tissues and digestive health.
Obesity & diabetes Diets low in fresh fruits and vegetables are often high in processed foods, which are high in sugars, fats, and salt. This can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Heart disease: Fresh fruits and vegetables are low in saturated fats and cholesterol, factors associated with heart disease. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Cancer risk: Many fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants and phytonutrients that have been shown to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
Poor mood and increased stress: Some studies suggest that diets low in fruits and vegetables are associated with higher rates of depression, stress, and poor mood.
Weakened Immunity: The vitamins and minerals in fruits and vegetables support the immune system. A weakened immune system makes you more susceptible to infections.
Food insecurity, like all other social determinants of health, is interrelated with multiple factors like poverty, employment status and access to quality food options. Solutions for food security work to address multiple avenues for increasing food security.
Urban agriculture: Detroit has a strong urban agriculture movement that aims to provide residents with fresh produce.
School nutrition: If a child is experiencing food insecurity at home, school meals are crucial to their health, wellbeing, and ability to learn. For the 2023-2024 Michigan school year, all pre-K- grade 12 students are entitled to free breakfast and lunch.
Food banks and pantries: Various organizations are working to provide immediate food relief to those in need. More than 80 food pantries and soup kitchens operate within 25 miles of downtown Detroit.
Reducing food waste: Reducing food waste alleviates food insecurity by redirecting surplus food to those in need, potentially making nutritious options more accessible and affordable.
Transportation: Programs help people with mobility or transportation challenges by bringing food to them.
Education & policy: Food policy advocacy and education in Detroit empower communities to improve local food systems, increasing access to nutritious options and reducing food insecurity.
Double Up Food Bucks offers a dollar-for-dollar match of up to $10 daily for fresh fruits and vegetables.