Health Impact Assessment: Development of a Full-Service Grocery Store Within a Food Desert

Abstract

The food retail environment of a community – the array of grocery stores, small markets, restaurants, farmers’ markets, etc. – plays an important role in determining health status. Low-income individuals, in particular, face challenges purchasing fruits, vegetables and other nutritious foods. These foods are simply not available within the neighborhood, the quality is poor, and/or the price is exorbitant. This Health Impact Assessment (HIA) examines the potential health implications of the development of a grocery store within a federally designated food desert on the northeast side of Indianapolis, Indiana.