Miranda Durham, a family medicine doctor, highlighted the return of the New Mexico Farmer's Market Nutrition Program for its 25th season. She said that it plays a role in providing fresh produce to promote healthy diets and disease prevention. This statement was made in a press release on February 14.

"It's one of the best ways to protect yourself against chronic diseases," said Durham. "Such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer."

According to the press release, seniors can now apply for the Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program online or at senior centers and Public Health Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) offices. WIC families can apply starting July 1 at local WIC clinics. Benefits are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, with distribution beginning on July 1. For assistance, individuals can call 505-469-0548, email doh.fmnp@doh.nm.gov, or visit the Santa Fe WIC office.

A study published in The Lancet found that New Mexico has experienced the highest relative increase in overweight and obesity rates among all U.S. states from 1990 to 2021. The percentage of overweight and obese males in the state rose by 38%, surpassing the national average of 25%, while the rate for females increased by nearly 64%, compared to the national average of 43%. This rise is attributed to limited access to nutritious food, particularly in underserved and rural areas.

According to KSFR, nearly 30% of New Mexico's population resides in low-income, low-access (LILA) census tracts, facing significant barriers to obtaining affordable and nutritious food. This issue disproportionately affects rural and Native American communities where grocery stores are scarce, and residents often rely on convenience stores with limited healthy options.

Dr. Miranda Durham is a family medicine physician based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, affiliated with Presbyterian Hospital. She earned her medical degree from Albany Medical College and has over two decades of experience in practice.