Imagine living in a town without a doctor or being 200 miles away from the nearest hospital. For one in five people in the U.S., including 5.7 million residents of rural communities throughout the Eastern States, this is a reality.
Rural areas face significant health care challenges. On average, people in these communities live almost three years fewer than those in urban areas and are more likely to die prematurely from heart disease or stroke. The reasons for these disparities are complex and varied.
Factors such as higher rates of tobacco use, physical inactivity, obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure contribute to serious health issues. Additionally, rural communities often suffer from severe shortages of health care professionals and may be located far from hospitals or clinics. Many also reside in “food deserts,” where access to healthy food is limited.
Despite these challenges, rural life offers unique advantages, including a strong sense of community and neighbors helping neighbors. These qualities provide a solid foundation for addressing health disparities.
The American Heart Association is committed to improving the health of rural Americans, believing that where you live should not determine how long you live. We recognize the health challenges faced by rural residents and celebrate the unique aspects of their communities.
Join us at our inaugural Rural Health Summit on June 13, 2025. This event will bring together community leaders, rural champions, and practitioners to share innovative solutions and shape the Association’s action-agenda. Through interactive sessions, we will explore successful strategies and share pioneering ideas for improving rural health through programming, research, and policy.
There is no registration fee to attend the summit, but donations are appreciated to help cover costs. Register today and be part of the movement to enhance rural health care!