Food Insecurity in Australia: Implications for General Practitioners
Date
2015
Authors
Lindberg, Rebecca
Lawrence, Mark
Gold, Lisa
Pegram, Olivia
Friel, Sharon
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Royal Australian College of General Practioners
Abstract
Background
In Australia, it would appear that food is abundant. For a proportion of people, however, accessing enough food to eat can be a daily or weekly struggle.
Objectives
This article provides a summary about the prevalence, causes and consequences of food insecurity that affects vulnerable populations in Australia, and discusses the implications for general practitioners (GPs).
Discussion
It is estimated that 4% of Australians cannot access sufficient, safe and nutritious food. Food insecurity can be both a precursor to, and a by-product of, chronic disease and poverty. Patients who are food insecure may skip meals, eat cheap food and experience stress. They may show incredible resilience and skills in managing and masking this issue. Identifying this vulnerable population is of high importance to GPs as it has an impact on the work-up and care of such individuals. Effective links between welfare and health services are required to address patients’ material, financial and environmental barriers to food security.
Description
Keywords
Citation
Collections
Source
Australian Family Physician
Type
Journal article