Supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP), skin health, and equity in pediatric populations: Integrating nutrition policy into dermatologic care

Background: Food insecurity and micronutrient insufficiency are underrecognized contributors to pediatric dermatologic disease and health disparities in the United States, and although the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the nation's largest nutrition assistance program and plays a critical role in reducing food insecurity and improving dietary quality among children, its relationship to skin health remains underexplored in dermatology. 

Methods: This commentary reviews evidence linking poverty, food insecurity, and micronutrient deficiency to common and nutritional dermatoses in pediatric populations. 

Results: We highlight practical tools dermatologists can use to screen for food insecurity and connect families with community resources, as well as opportunities for dermatology organizations to engage in advocacy and policy discussions related to nutrition assistance programs. 

Conclusions: Integrating nutrition screening and awareness of food access barriers into dermatologic care is an actionable step toward improving pediatric skin health and advancing health equity.