SNAP participation moderates the association between household food insecurity and HbA1c among Cambodian Americans with depression

OBJECTIVES: We tested whether participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) moderated the relation between household food insecurity and HbA1c among Cambodian Americans with depression enrolled in a diabetes prevention trial. METHODS: Community health workers assessed household food insecurity and SNAP participation. HbA1c was ascertained using direct enzymatic assay. RESULTS: Among the n = 189 respondents, 19% were food insecure, 41% received SNAP benefits, and mean HbA1c = 5.5%. There was a significant interaction between SNAP and food insecurity. HbA1c was highest among participants without SNAP who were food insecure. Simple effects analysis revealed a significant difference within the no SNAP group [Mean (SD): Secure = 5.38 (0.38), Insecure = 5.78 (0.36)] and no difference within the SNAP group [Secure = 5.61(0.44), Insecure = 5.61(0.55)]. Differences remained significant after controlling for demographic, socioeconomic, and clinical indicators. CONCLUSIONS: SNAP may protect against the deleterious association between household food insecurity and HbA1c.