PROCURING PRODUCE IN A RURAL, APPALACHIAN COUNTY: A THEMATIC ANALYSIS OF COMMUNITY MEMBER EXPERIENCES

Rates of obesity and other health disparities are exceptionally high in rural Appalachian counties compared to the nation as a whole. One causal factor of these health disparities in Appalachian counties is the inequitable allocation of healthy food. Food insecurity and the local food environment are large drivers for obesity experienced by Martin County, Kentucky residents. Successful socioecological model (SEM) and policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) interventions have shown promising results in reducing obesity and enhancing food security in this population. Through the transcription of semi-structured focus group interviews, thematic analysis aimed to obtain perspectives on the local food system. This study identified major barriers, facilitators, and existing food programs relative to produce procurement in Martin County. Findings from this study will be used to tailor food security interventions for Appalachian counties in effort to reduce the obesity prevalence in this population