Food Insecurity and Risk Indicators for Sexually Transmitted Infection Among Sexually Active Persons Aged 15-44, National Survey of Family Growth, 2011-2017

Abstract

Objectives: Food insecurity is linked to poor sexual health outcomes, especially among persons engaged in sexual behaviors that are associated with the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We examined this link using nationally representative data. Methods: We used data on adolescents and adults aged 15-44 who reported sexual activity in the past year from 6 years (September 2011–September 2017) of cross-sectional, weighted public-use data from the National Survey of Family Growth. We compared data on persons who did and did not report food insecurity, accounting for demographic characteristics, markers of poverty, and past-year STI risk indicators (ie, engaged in 1 of 4 high-risk activities or diagnosed with chlamydia or gonorrhea). Results: Respondents who reported at least 1 past-year STI risk indicator were significantly more likely to report food insecurity (females: adjusted risk ratio [ARR] = 1.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.35-1.97; P