Food Insecurity in Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Cross-Sectional Analysis from the Population-Based All of Us Research Program.

Abstract

Background: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory cutaneous disease associated with obesity and low socioeconomic status that can have a significant impact on quality of life. Food insecurity (FI) is associated with a higher likelihood of having a chronic health condition. This cross-sectional study was undertaken to assess the association between HS and FI.

Summary: We performed secondary analysis of a cross-sectional survey of individuals 18 years and older registered in the National Institutes of Health's All of Us Research Program in May 2024. The study sample was limited to those who had completed the Children's HealthWatch Hunger Vital Sign™ FI screening survey, validated for use in adults in 2017. HS status was assessed among study participants based on ICD-9/10 diagnosis code (705.83 or L73.2). Multivariable logistic regression was used to characterize the association between HS diagnosis and food security status, adjusting for sex, race and ethnicity, age, and income. Among participants with HS, 37/134 (27.6%) screened positive for FI. In comparison, among those without HS, 6,278/56,967 (11%) screened positive. In an adjusted multivariable logistic regression, HS was associated with significantly higher odds of FI (OR: 1.70, 95% CI: 1.09-2.60).

Key messages: Study results demonstrated a significant association between HS and FI. Further research is needed to understand specific factors mediating the relationship between HS and FI. The study highlights an opportunity for dermatologists to take an active role in screening for FI in patients with HS and in providing resources as necessary.