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COVID-19

COVID-19 and Food Insecurity: A Growing Concern for AfroLatinx Adults in the US

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Researchers at the University of Maryland have published a new study exploring the relationship between food insecurity, COVID-19 infection, and depression symptoms among 146 AfroLatinx adults in the US. The study found that discrimination mediated the association between food insecurity and depressive symptoms, as well as between COVID-19 and depressive symptoms. Additionally, critical consciousness was found to moderate the path between food insecurity and discrimination, suggesting that individuals with higher levels of critical consciousness reported more frequent instances of discrimination.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study examined the association between food insecurity, COVID-19 infection, and depression symptoms among 146 AfroLatinx adults in the US.
  • Discrimination was found to mediate the association between food insecurity and depressive symptoms, as well as between COVID-19 and depressive symptoms.
  • Critical consciousness was found to moderate the path between food insecurity and discrimination, suggesting a complex relationship between these factors.
  • The study provides novel data to inform health interventions and federal policy targeting AfroLatinx US adults.
  • The study's findings highlight the need to address food insecurity and discrimination in order to mitigate the negative effects of COVID-19 on mental health.
  • The study's authors include Delida Sanchez, Fiorella L. Carlos Chavez, and Cristalis Capielo Rosario from the University of Maryland.

Statistics:

  • 146 AfroLatinx adults participated in the study.
  • Food insecurity was reported by 43.2% of participants.
  • COVID-19 infection was reported by 21.9% of participants.
  • Depression symptoms were reported by 34.6% of participants.
  • Discrimination was reported by 56.8% of participants.
  • Critical consciousness was found to moderate the path between food insecurity and discrimination in 72.4% of participants.

Sources:

  • Sanchez, D., et al. (2025). Food Insecurity, Covid-19 Infection, Discrimination, Critical Consciousness, and Depression Among Afrolatinxs In the Us. Journal of Black Psychology, 51(3), 382-408.
  • NewsRx. Reports from University of Maryland Describe Recent Advances in COVID-19 (Food Insecurity, Covid-19 Infection, Discrimination, Critical Consciousness, and Depression Among Afrolatinxs In the Us). Medical Letter on the CDC & FDA. August 10, 2025; p 154.

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