Augusta's Walton Way exemplifies a pressing issue faced by many urban areas in America; while the thoroughfare is replete with fast-food options, genuine grocery stores are noticeably absent. The closest supermarkets are located a minimum of ten minutes away by car, nestled among more fast-food establishments. This environment, termed a "food swamp," features an overwhelming presence of unhealthy food choices compared to healthy options. Furthermore, certain neighborhoods in central Augusta fall under the category of "food deserts," impoverished urban areas where residents, a significant portion of whom live under the poverty line with Augusta's rate at 21%, reside more than a mile from the nearest grocery store.
Dr. Malcolm Bevel, a researcher at the Georgia Cancer Center and assistant professor at Augusta University's Medical College of Georgia, is spearheading efforts to combat these social determinants that adversely affect community health. His central focus is on obesity and obesity-related cancers, exploring how the food environment influences these conditions. Dr. Bevel pointed out the problematic nature of food environments where residents face limited healthy eating choices, contributing to an atmosphere that fosters obesity, which can exacerbate cancer risks.
Dr. Malcolm Bevel
Understanding obesity and its implications
Obesity, distinct from being overweight, is the chronic condition of excessive fat accumulation that poses significant health risks, including the higher likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, and other health issues. According to the World Health Organization, obesity levels among adults have more than doubled since 1990, and adolescent obesity has quadrupled. In the United States, over 40% of adults are obese, with non-Hispanic Black adults experiencing the highest prevalence.
Dr. Bevel and other public health experts identify diet as a primary contributor to obesity. The consistent consumption of fast food and unhealthy options, especially in disadvantaged neighborhoods with fewer choices, is linked to obesity and heightened cancer risks. Dr. Bevel's research, which he presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, indicated that breast cancer patients living in food swamps had more than double the risk of mortality compared to those residing in areas with healthier food environments.
Economic barriers and long-term health
Even residents who venture to grocery stores for healthier food alternatives face higher prices compared to readily available fast food. However, Dr. Bevel argues that investing in healthier food options upfront can prevent costly medical conditions associated with poor dietary choices. He suggests this perspective can empower individuals to make long-term investments in their health.
Georgia's obesity rate stands at 35%, with non-Hispanic Black adults at 43.8%. Despite the lack of specific statistics for the Augusta area, these figures highlight the broader issue. Dr. Bevel has devised a multifaceted strategy aimed at introducing healthier food options and fostering sustainable lifestyle changes in Augusta and beyond.
Revitalizing spaces and educating communities
Dr. Bevel's strategy involves transforming the rooftop terrace of the Georgia Cancer Center's Outpatient Services building into a flourishing garden with aeroponic tower gardens for growing produce to distribute to the community. Supported by funding and the approval of GCC Director Dr. Jorge Cortes, this initiative aims to provide fresh produce for cancer patients while promoting community health education. The project plans to install new furniture and grow a variety of produce like tomatoes, herbs, and leafy greens.
Partnering with local organizations like Ebony Tree Farms and Studio Farmer Inc., Dr. Bevel seeks to engage the community. These partnerships will provide resources, training in gardening, and support in the form of seeds and materials for garden projects.
Innovative solutions with hydroponic farms
Incorporating hydroponic vertical gardens is another component of Dr. Bevel's approach. These gardens use water-based systems to grow plants without soil, offering an efficient, sustainable way to produce fresh food. In collaboration with Ebony Tree Farms, Dr. Bevel established micro-farms, such as the HARVEST-HD Farm at GCC's research building, to cultivate pesticide-free, organic produce. These efforts include community outreach and educational programs to promote healthy eating.
Anna Griffin trims the produce growing in the Walton Options micro-farm
The micro-farms not only supply fresh produce but also support community programs. For example, half of the yield from these urban farms is donated to local initiatives that provide meals to the homeless. Surveys will be distributed to GCC patients to assess how these gardens influence their dietary choices and overall well-being.
Future endeavors and long-term goals
Looking ahead, Dr. Bevel aims to expand these initiatives throughout the South and Southeast, focusing on regions severely affected by food swamps and health disparities. Plans include training medical students in Savannah on maintaining micro-farms and applying for larger grants to support further research and implementation.
Ultimately, Dr. Bevel's vision is to establish micro-farms and community gardens on a widespread scale, addressing food insecurity and promoting public health. The interconnectedness of these initiatives aims to mitigate health disparities by empowering communities with accessible, healthy food options, emphasizing the critical role of diet in preventing diseases like cancer. Through continued collaboration and community engagement, Dr. Bevel aspires to transform the nutritional landscape and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.