Food insecurity – the state of being without reliable access to adequate amounts of affordable, nutritious food – may be linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure and diabetes for stroke victims, possibly putting them at greater risk for a second stroke, a new study has found. Researchers at Cook County Health & Hospitals System found that among patients with recent stroke and food insecurity, 84.6 percent had high blood pressure, or hypertension. Fifty-eight percent of these patients had diabetes, and 16.7 percent had a previous stroke. Those were higher rates than among stroke survivors not labelled food insecure (67.3 percent had hypertension; 28.8 percent had diabetes; and 21.2 percent had a previous stroke). Food insecurity is gaining recognition as a risk factor for poorly controlled hypertension and diabetes, both of which can potentially lead to another stroke for stroke survivors. Dr. Lakshmi Warrior, lead researcher of the study and an Attending Neurologist at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital, said the findings suggest that medical treatment of hypertension and diabetes may not be enough for stroke patients.

The research, was in February and was based on data from patients who came to CCHHS’ outpatient neurology clinic. Using a standardized two-question screening tool and reviewing electronic medical records, researchers identified 22.7 percent, or about 1 in 5 patients, as being food insecure. CCHHS’ John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital Stroke Program takes a multidisciplinary approach to treating patients. All stroke patients are screened by a social worker for food insecurity, depression, substance/tobacco use and need for transportation. Patients who screen positive for food insecurity are then given information about food resources including local food pantries and how to apply for federal programs such as SNAP. CCHHS also has a program that connects food-insecure patients with fresh produce through a partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository. The depository has FRESH Trucks that are refrigerated vehicles stocked with fresh fruits and vegetables.