Influence of community food environment on adult body mass index (BMI): a systematic review

Abstract

To verify the association between community food environment and Body Mass Index (BMI) of adults. Systematic review conducted in EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science databases, considering the period from 2010 to 2022. Out of 10,407 articles, 24 observational studies were eligible according to the inclusion criteria. The methodological approaches were evaluated using STROBE (Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) and OSQE (Observational Study Quality Evaluation). The protocol was registered at PROSPERO (number 42021260594). Most studies reported that BMI tends to increase with proximity to and a greater number of supermarkets, fast-food establishments, and convenience stores. The prevalence of adults with BMI greater than 25 kg/m2 was higher in locations with lower socioeconomic status. BMI was lower in more financially advantaged neighborhoods near grocery stores and fruit and vegetable markets. The selected studies indicate that a community food environment with higher availability of unhealthy foods is related to high BMI. The socioeconomic level can worsen this association, showing that people in social vulnerability have more difficulty accessing healthy food.