Disparities in Food Security and Glycemic Control Among People with Type 2 Diabetes During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

background Little is known about the differing impacts of food insecurity on HbA1c by race in type 2 diabetes (T2D). Predictions around increased food insecurity from COVID-19 exacerbating racial disparities led us to estimate its prevalence and associations with HbA1c by race during the COVID-19 pandemic. methods Data came from medical records and surveys among a clinic-based sample of T2D patients. Linear regression models estimated associations between food insecurity and HbA1c and between change in food insecurity and change in HbA1c. Likelihood ratio tests and examination of stratum-specific estimates assessed effect modification by race. results Our sample was 59% White, 59% female, and mean age was 60.8 ± 12.6. During the pandemic, food insecurity prevalence and HbA1c were significantly (p