According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC), more than 46 million Americans, or 15 percent of the U.S. population live in rural areas. And generally speaking, residents of rural areas in the U.S. tend to be older and sicker than their urban counterparts.

Rural Americans tend to have higher rates of cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, and obesity. Rural residents report less leisure-time physical activity and lower seatbelt use than their urban counterparts. They also have higher rates of poverty, less access to healthcare, and are less likely to have health insurance – all of these factors can lead to poor health outcomes.

These challenges highlight the need for additional attention and resources aimed at improving health in rural America. Rural areas could benefit from improved public health programs that support healthier behaviors and neighborhoods, and better access to healthcare services.

At Muse Health™, we are working with our partners to eradicate health disparities and driving more positive health outcomes for all, no matter where you live.