Food Insecurity and Surgery

About 1 in 7 households in the U.S. face food insecurity — a condition defined as not having  access to food of a sufficient quality or quantity to meet their basic nutritional needs. 

For the estimated 47 million Americans living with food insecurity, including more than 7 million children, lack of access to sufficient and nutritious food poses several health risks. People living with chronic diseases and those scheduled for surgery are especially vulnerable to the negative impacts of insufficient nutrition.

Nutrition and safe surgery are closely linked: A 2025 investigation published in JAMA Surgery found that trauma patients experiencing food insecurity faced a greater risk of complications post-surgery (41% vs. 12.5%) and longer lengths of stay (median of 13 days vs. 5 days). Research also shows that interventions work: A study presented at the American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress 2024 found that implementing a system-wide preoperative nutrition program significantly decreased postoperative complications across multiple surgical specialties. 

Nutrition Matters Before and After Surgery

Proper nutrition is not only the backbone of healthy living but also important for good surgical outcomes. Undergoing surgery can often be seen as a “marathon” for the body, placing stress on its everyday functioning and healing process. Eating well before and after surgery, including foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, provides the body with the energy needed to build nutritional reserves before surgery and to properly heal and recover after surgery.

Journalists may email pressinquiry@facs.org to connect with experts and learn more about nutrition and safe surgery.

There are many ways to both recognize the signs of someone facing food insecurity and to help those in need of help.

Health Care Providers Can Advocate for Their Patients

Although some hospitals may screen for food insecurity, far too many Americans are still at risk. A 2019 JAMA Network Open study involving 2,190 physician practices and 739 hospitals found that less than half (30% of physician practices and 40% of hospitals) screened for food insecurity.

The American Medical Association notes that asking two key questions during a doctor’s visit can help identify patients at risk of food insecurity:

• Were you ever worried that the food you had would run out before you could get money to buy more?
• Was there ever a time when the food you had did run out and you didn't have money to get more?

Patients Can Ask for Guidance on Nutrition

If you are scheduled for surgery and are worried about having access to enough food before or after surgery, talk to your care team about your concerns. The American College of Surgeons Strong for Surgery program features patient checklists, including one focused on nutrition, to help patients select the best foods for their recovery. Hospital social workers are often equipped to refer patients to resources to support their recovery.

Good Samaritans Can Volunteer 

Food banks often operate in communities to serve those in need. Feeding America has a national food bank search to find one in your community. Hospital social workers may also be able to refer you to local resources to assist those in need.

• Food Assistance and Food System Resources - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• USDA National Hunger Hotline
• Feeding America