RESUMO
OBJECTIVES AND DESIGN: This cross-sectional, observational study examined the prevalence of objectively measured chronic disease risk factors among a diverse group of food pantry patrons. SAMPLE AND MEASUREMENT: Public health nurses performed biometric screenings in community settings for 1,685 unduplicated adults attending food pantries. RESULTS: Over three fourths of participants (81.1%) were overweight or obese. High cholesterol and high blood pressure were detected in 38.4% and 37.7% of participants, respectively. Over half (58%) of the participants were referred to a local community health clinic for follow-up services. CONCLUSION: Interventions should target food pantry patrons to reduce the prevalence of chronic disease conditions among this vulnerable population.
