Food Insecurity (IMAGE) University of Nevada, Las Vegas Caption Dollars and Cents: Poor health is often attributed to poor food and lifestyle decisions. However, UNLV political scientist Tiffiany Howard says the absence of choice that living in a food desert creates is at the root of poor health outcomes for many African Americans -- increasing the risk for chronic health conditions and contributing to greater financial and health care barriers. Credit Josh Hawkins/UNLV Creative Services Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.