Interaction Effect of Food Insecurity and Stroke on the Risk of All-Cause Mortality: NHANES 2015-2018

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Social Determinants of Health

Background:

• Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in the U.S.
• Investigating the impact of food insecurity on stroke mortality is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the interaction between food insecurity and stroke history on overall mortality risk.
• To determine if food insecurity exacerbates mortality in stroke survivors.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from the 2015-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
• Inclusion of mortality follow-up data through December 31, 2019.
• Statistical analysis of food insecurity status and stroke history in relation to mortality.

Main Results:

• Stroke survivors with food insecurity had higher mortality rates (38.1%) compared to food-secure survivors (31.6%).
• Adjusted Hazard Ratio for mortality was significantly elevated (3.66) among stroke survivors with food insecurity.
• The interaction effect was observed in females but not in males.

Conclusions:

• Food insecurity substantially increases all-cause mortality among stroke survivors.
• Social determinants, like food insecurity, must be considered in managing chronic diseases such as stroke.