Beyond survival: food insecurity challenges for survivors of cancer post-COVID

Survivors of cancer are at increased risk of food insecurity, especially post-COVID-19. However, data are scant regarding this issue in this group. This study assessed the prevalence and correlates of food insecurity in a national sample of survivors of cancer in the United States.

Using data from the 2022 Health Information National Trends Survey (N = 840), this study examined food insecurity among survivors of cancer through questions on meal size, skipping meals, and affordability of balanced meals. Correlates included patient-provider communication and sociodemographic factors. Binary logistic regressions were conducted using the jackknife replication method on STATA.

About 7% of survivors of cancer reported cutting meal sizes or skipping meals, while about 9% could not afford balanced meals. Better patient-provider communication was associated with lower odds of cutting meal sizes [Odds Ratio (OR) 0.87; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.77, 0.98) and not being able to afford balanced meals (OR 0.85; 95% CI 0.76, 0.95). Older survivors (aged 61 +) were less likely to cut meal sizes or skip them (OR 0.02; 95% CI 0.00090, 0.50) compared to younger survivors aged 18-40. Specific at-risk subgroups included those who did not complete high school and divorced or single individuals.

Certain cancer survivors, such as those with lower educational level, those who are divorced or single, and those who are young, were more vulnerable than others to being food insecure. Hence, tailored programs, including improved patient-provider communication addressing nutrition, are necessary.