Over 21% of US medical students reported experiencing food insecurity, nearly double the national average, according to a survey across eight institutions with 1,834 participants. The prevalence varied among demographics, particularly affecting Black, Southeast Asian, Middle Eastern, and Hispanic students, as well as those underrepresented in medicine. Financial factors such as reliance on private loans and educational debt significantly increased vulnerability. The study emphasizes the need for interventions like dining programs and support resources to address this crisis, particularly amid rising educational pressures.

Source: JAMA Network Open