Perspectives

Dear Heloise: I keep hearing that there is a global food shortage affecting over 238 million people around the world. What is causing this, and is there anything we can do to help people who are experiencing food shortages? -- Lorraine Y., Scranton, Pennsylvania Lorraine, there are about three main factors that contribue to food shortages: -- Conflict: This is the main reason for food insecurity. It disrupts food sources from reaching their intended market and cuts into income, which all lead to higher food prices. It is also considered a weapon of war when food is cut off. A starving population will, in time, surrender.