Food Insecurity and COVID-19 Diagnosis: Findings from a National United States Sample

Abstract

This study explores the association between experiencing food insecurity and COVID-19 diagnosis in the United States, and what sociodemographic characteristics moderate this relationship. We analyzed a national sample of adults in the United States (n=6,475). Multiple logistic regression results revealed respondents experiencing food insecurity had approximately 3.0 times significantly higher odds of a positive COVID-19 diagnosis (Odds Ratio [OR]=2.95, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]=1.38-6.32, p<.01), which remained significant after adjusting for sociodemographics and COVID-19 mitigation behaviors (OR=2.59, 95% CI=1.09-6.18, p<.05). Age group had a significant moderating effect (OR=42.55, 95% CI=3.13-579.15, p<.01). Results indicate experiencing food insecurity is associated with contracting COVID-19.