Food insecurity among low-income HIV-positive Oklahomans: Prevalence, determinants, and impact

Food insecurity and perceived HIV stigma have been identified as possible contributors to poor health outcomes among persons living with HIV/AIDS. This dissertation explores the relationships between food insecurity, perceived HIV stigma, and health outcomes among low-income Oklahomans receiving treatment for HIV/AIDS. A mixed-methods research approach included the administration of standardized surveys (N = 164) and a series of four focus group discussions (N = 31) among low-income, HIV-positive persons living in eastern and western Oklahoma. Research findings revealed that food insecurity is highly prevalent among low-income Oklahomans receiving treatment for HIV/AIDS, regardless of geographic region or case management provider. Despite frequent use of food assistance programs, the experience of food insecurity is nearly universal among this clinical population, with nearly nine out of ten persons experiencing some aspect of food insecurity in the past year. Additionally, food insecure Oklahomans receiving treatment for HIV/AIDS experience greater degrees of perceived HIV stigma, more frequent mental distress, and lower self-rated physical health. These findings suggest that food insecurity plays a fundamental role in the perceived mental and physical well-being of members within this population. In order for food insecurity to be improved, significant changes must be made to the current system of food assistance for low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS.;Keywords: food insecurity, HIV/AIDS, perceived HIV stigma.