Living in a food desert doubles stroke risk for patients with atrial fibrillation, study finds

A recent study conducted by Tulane University has shed light on the impact of food deserts on patients with atrial fibrillation. The research found that individuals living in neighborhoods with poor access to full-service grocery stores are at a significantly higher risk of stroke and death compared to those in better-served areas.

The study, published in the journal JACC: Advances, analyzed electronic health records of 1,553 patients with atrial fibrillation in the New Orleans area between 2010 and 2019. Patients were categorized based on their ZIP codes into two groups: those living inside food deserts and those living outside of them. The study revealed that patients in food deserts had more than double the risk of ischemic stroke and nearly four times the risk of death compared to their counterparts in well-served areas.

Dr. Nassir Marrouche, the director of the Tulane University Heart and Vascular Institute and corresponding author of the study, emphasized the importance of addressing the environmental factors that contribute to cardiovascular risks. He highlighted the need for increased cardiovascular screenings, particularly in communities with limited access to healthy food options.

The researchers used the REACHnet clinical research database to identify patients and matched their ZIP codes to the USDA’s Food Access Research Atlas. By comparing outcomes while controlling for other factors, they were able to demonstrate the significant impact of food deserts on health outcomes.

To mitigate these risks, the authors suggest that clinicians inquire about food access during patient screenings and connect at-risk individuals to nutrition programs or social services. Additionally, policymakers and health systems could focus on improving nutrition support and grocery access in medically vulnerable neighborhoods.

Dr. Marrouche emphasized the importance of early detection and tailored care for communities facing health disparities. The Tulane Research Innovation for Arrhythmia Discovery (TRIAD) Center is dedicated to addressing the specific needs of the New Orleans community and working towards inclusive models of care to improve cardiovascular outcomes.

The study’s findings underscore the critical role of access to healthy food in preventing adverse health outcomes for patients with atrial fibrillation. By addressing the social determinants of health and implementing targeted interventions, healthcare providers and policymakers can work towards reducing disparities and improving outcomes for vulnerable populations.