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A new study published in the journal JAMA Cardiology reveals a significant disparity in cardiovascular health between adults living in rural versus urban communities in the United States. Researchers have found that rural residents are more likely to suffer from heart disease and related risk factors, with social determinants playing a key role.
The study, which analyzed data from over 27,000 adults from the 2022 National Health Interview Survey, uncovered alarming statistics:
- Heart Disease: 7% of rural adults compared to 4% of urban adults.
- High Blood Pressure: 37% of rural adults compared to 31% of urban adults.
- High Cholesterol: 29% of rural adults compared to 27% of urban adults.
- Obesity: 41% of rural adults compared to 30% of urban adults.
- Diabetes: 11% of rural adults compared to 10% of urban adults.
Notably, the largest differences in high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes were observed among adults aged 20-39 living in rural areas.
Researchers found that social factors, including income levels, education, food security, and homeownership, significantly contributed to these disparities. Access to healthcare and lifestyle factors such as smoking and physical activity, while showing some differences, did not fully explain the observed variations. Prior research has indicated that socioeconomic hardships, such as poverty, can increase inflammation and negatively impact cardiovascular health.
Geographically, the study revealed that rates of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and heart disease were highest in rural areas of the South. Obesity rates were elevated across all rural regions in the U.S., particularly in the Northeast.
With over 60 million U.S. adults residing in rural communities, where heart disease remains the leading cause of death, these findings highlight a critical public health concern. The study classified rural areas as counties with populations under 50,000, small to medium cities as counties with populations between 50,000 and 1 million, and large cities as counties with populations of 1 million or more.
The researchers emphasize the need for targeted public health initiatives and policy changes to improve cardiovascular health in rural populations, especially among younger adults. They hope that this research will inform strategies to combat the elevated risks faced by these communities.
More information can be found at: DOI: 10.1001/jamacardio.2025.0538 jamanetwork.com/journals/jamac … /fullarticle/2832034
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. The results of this study highlight correlations, and further research is needed to determine causation and to provide specific recommendations for interventions.
