Food Insecurity among United States Military Veterans - Abstract
This literature review examines why United States military veterans (hereafter,
“veterans”) are at a higher risk of food insecurity than nonveterans. It provides an
overview of the literature regarding the prevalence of food insecurity among
veteran subpopulations and how it compares to the general population. Unique risk
factors associated with increased probabilities of veterans being food insecure are
reported, along with barriers that may inhibit veterans’ participation in food assistance
programs. Food insecurity risk factor screening in clinical or community settings and
recently targeted interventions to support veterans at high risk for experiencing food
insecurity are described. Overall, the literature reveals that veterans are at a higher
risk of food insecurity than nonveterans due to various risk factors unique to the veteran
population. More research is needed to identify significant factors that may be used to
target interventions to improve food security among the veteran population.