A recent study has revealed alarming disparities in preventable premature deaths between rural and urban areas, with rural residents disproportionally affected. According to the study, residents in noncore counties experienced high percentages of preventable premature deaths, with demographic factors such as race and ethnicity also playing a role in disparities.
However, there is some good news as preventable premature deaths from cancer have decreased substantially, especially in urban counties where access to preventive services and treatment is more readily available. On the other hand, the study found that the worsening drug overdose epidemic, increases in motor vehicle traffic fatalities, and falls contribute to the growth in preventable premature deaths from unintentional injury, with rural-urban disparities narrowing due to worsening rates in more urban areas.
Disparities in preventable premature deaths from heart disease and stroke between rural and urban areas have also increased during the study period, likely due to COVID-19-related conditions contributing to risk-associated increased mortality. Despite an overall decrease in preventable premature deaths from Chronic Lower Respiratory Disease, the percentage has remained stable in medium and small urban areas and rural counties, with some decline in urban areas potentially due to deaths from COVID-19.
These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address preventable premature deaths, particularly in rural areas where disparities are most pronounced. Improving access to preventive services and treatment, addressing the drug overdose epidemic, and promoting road safety measures are all crucial steps in reducing premature deaths and improving overall public health.
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