Inequality in obesigenic environments: fast food density in New York City

Health Place. 2009 Mar;15(1):364-73. doi: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2008.07.003. Epub 2008 Jul 16.

Abstract

The high prevalence of obesity in African American populations may be due to the food environment in residential communities, and the density of fast food restaurants is an important aspect of the restaurant landscape in US cities. This study investigated racial and socioeconomic correlates of fast food density in New York City. We found that predominantly Black areas had higher densities of fast food than predominantly White areas; high-income Black areas had similar exposure as low-income Black areas; and national chains were most dense in commercial areas. The results highlight the importance of policy level interventions to address disparities in food environments as a key goal in obesity prevention efforts.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Commerce* / statistics & numerical data
  • Databases as Topic
  • Food Supply*
  • Health Status Disparities*
  • Humans
  • New York City
  • Obesity*
  • Prejudice
  • Restaurants / statistics & numerical data*