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Introduction: Our obesogenic environment has affected obesity rates. The current study conceptualizes the association between the community food environment and the demographics, socioeconomic status, and the participants’ perception on access to healthy food.Methods: Using a cross-sectional study, we conducted, a Nutrition Environment Measures: Corner Store Measures (NEM:CSM) survey and a community-based Nutrition Environment Measures Perception Survey, between August 2017 and May 2018, in Escambia County, FL school zones to collect data on corner store (types, addresses, and the availability of healthy food items in the stores) and on participants’ demographics, socioeconomic status, shopping behavior, their concern about (nutritional value, quality, and cost of healthy items), and the importance given to (taste, nutrition value, cost of healthy items, convenience to shop and their weight). Univariate and bivariate analyzed participants’ perceptions was overlayed on the geospatial model of the stores to assess the food environment.Results: Most participants were low-income, African American, high school graduates, food aid recipients, who owned cars. The commonest commute time to the store was reported as less than 10 minutes and the small grocery store was the most frequently accessed store type. Demographic and socioeconomic status affected participants’ access to healthy food. Oakcrest school zone residents were more concerned about the quality of the fresh fruits and vegetables and considered cost as the important factor while making shopping decisions. Oakcrest school zone reported highest NEMS-CS scores.Conclusion: A community-based approach promotes participants awareness on healthy food access and consumption. Prevention programs with precise measurement tools, longitudinal studies, and inter-organizational collaborations could prevent obesity. |
