Overview

• The CDC study reveals that rural Americans are disproportionately affected by early deaths from heart disease, cancer, and other preventable conditions.
• Lack of healthcare access, including fewer doctors and hospitals, exacerbates health disparities in rural areas.
• Structural challenges such as poor infrastructure and limited health insurance coverage contribute to higher mortality rates.
• Rural residents have lower rates of preventive screenings and treatment for chronic diseases compared to urban dwellers.
• Efforts to improve rural health care include increasing local health department funding and promoting telehealth services.