In discussions on health disparities in America, the spotlight often shines on access to care issues. While addressing equity in healthcare remains crucial, it's time to acknowledge that access to care is not the problem we should be focused on. The real challenge lies in access to healthy food.
For decades, the US Government and regulatory bodies have been fixated on expanding "access to care." Since the post-World War II era[1], there has been a steady growth in hospitals, health systems, and community health centers to meet the perceived increasing demand for healthcare services. However, alongside this growth, there has been a parallel trend towards prioritizing convenience in various industries, including fast food.
Fast food, once considered an occasional treat, has become a ubiquitous part of the American life[2]. With nearly 37% of Americans consuming fast food on any given day, it's evident that convenience often trumps health considerations[3]. A survey by the National Institutes of Health stated that 92% of people who ate fast food did so because it was quick and 80% of them said they did so because the restaurants are easy to get to[4]. People opt for fast food not because they are unaware of its health risks, but because it fits seamlessly into their busy lifestyles.
This tells us that the reason people are eating fast food isn’t because the food is necessarily good, but that it is quick, convenient and fits into our busy lifestyles. Studies show that Gen Z’s top priority when it comes to food is speed of service. This isn’t surprising with the nature of access in every element of their lives. However, they are also ultra focused on health and well-being. They will choose restaurants and options that improve their physical and mental health, looking for organic, fresh and sustainable ingredients[5].
Restaurants like Chipotle have successfully tapped into this demand by offering healthier alternatives in a fast-food format. However, such options are still limited, leaving many families, like mine, craving healthy drive-thru options during busy days.
The repercussions of our convenience-driven food culture are profound. A staggering 90% of the nation's healthcare expenditures, totaling more than $4.5 trillion annually, are allocated towards treating chronic conditions[6]. Many of these conditions are preventable through lifestyle changes, particularly diet.
Even when individuals make an effort to eat healthy, navigating the complex landscape of food ingredients is nearly impossible. The prevalence of bioengineered ingredients and other additives is not only difficult to find healthy options, but it requires significant time and understanding of long-term effects from consumption such as cancer and weight gain. This should not be as difficult as it is to provide healthy, cost-effective food for our families.
While our healthcare system undoubtedly requires reform to better accommodate all patients, we cannot overlook the critical role that access to nutritious food plays in preventive care. Providing affordable, quality food options should not be a luxury but a fundamental necessity for every family.
As a mother, I understand the struggle of balancing convenience with health when it comes to feeding my family. It's time to shift our focus from merely treating more illnesses to empowering individuals with the resources and opportunities to make healthier choices every day. Together, let's advocate for a future where access to healthy food is not just a desire, but a reality for all.
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