Edward Corty, MD and Melissa Lutz, MD from Johns Hopkins Hospital discuss pediatric food insecurity.

This podcast features a discussion on childhood foodinsecurity, emphasizing its significance as a health and social issue in the United States. Hosted by Edward Corty, MD and Melissa Lutz, MD from Johns Hopkins Hospital, the conversation begins with a case study of a four-year-oldboy, illustrating how food insecurity can affect families even when children appear well.

Key points include:

• Definition and importance: Food insecurity is the lack of consistent access to enough food for an active,healthy life, affecting about 15% of U.S. households with children. It can lead to nutritional deficiencies, physical illnesses, behavioral health issues, developmental delays, and long-term health risks like diabetes and heart disease.
• Screening practices: Pediatricians are recommended to routinely screen for food insecurity using tools like theHunger Vital Signs, which involve simple questions about food access over the past year. Sensitive, private conversations and permission are essential.
• Interventions and resources: Multiple levels of intervention are available, including federal assistance programs (e.g., SNAP, WIC, school meal programs), healthcare-based resources (food vouchers, clinics), and community resources (food banks, churches,community organizations). Follow-up is crucial to ensure families connect with and benefit from these resources.
• Ongoing management: Continuous follow-up within the healthcare setting helps track progress and adapt support.