Food subsidy programs and the health and nutritional status of disadvantaged families in high income countries: a systematic review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Less healthy diets are common in high income countries, although proportionally higher in those of low socio-economic status. Food subsidy programs are one strategy to promote healthy nutrition and to reduce socio-economic inequalities in health. This review summarises the evidence for the health and nutritional impacts of food subsidy programs among disadvantaged families from high income countries.

Methods

Relevant studies reporting dietary intake or health outcomes were identified through systematic searching of electronic databases. Cochrane Public Health Group guidelines informed study selection and interpretation. A narrative synthesis was undertaken due to the limited number of studies and heterogeneity of study design and outcomes.

Results

Fourteen

SUBMITTER: Black AP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3559269 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature