Atlanta, Georgia – Rural residents in Georgia have faced significant challenges in preventing premature deaths, especially in noncore counties. Disparities in premature deaths between rural and urban areas have raised concerns, with variations seen in different causes of death. The impact of these disparities extends beyond location, as other demographic factors such as sex, race, and ethnicity also play a role.
Data on disparities in cause-specific premature deaths are crucial for informing interventions and health policies tailored to specific racial and ethnic groups. Recent studies have highlighted the need for targeted strategies to address preventable premature deaths in both rural and urban counties, particularly in areas where high percentages of the population are Black, African American, American Indian, or Alaska Native.
In the fight against cancer, progress has been made in decreasing preventable premature deaths, especially in urban counties where access to preventive services and specialized care is more readily available. Advances in screening, early detection, and vaccination for cancer-causing viruses have contributed to lowering cancer mortality rates over the years. However, disparities still exist, with rural areas experiencing higher rates of premature deaths compared to national averages.
Unintentional injuries, including drug overdoses, motor vehicle accidents, and falls, have contributed to the rise in preventable premature deaths, with rural-urban disparities becoming more pronounced. Limited access to treatment and preventive measures in rural counties has posed challenges in combating these preventable deaths, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions in these areas.
Heart disease and stroke remain leading causes of preventable premature deaths, with disparities persisting between rural and urban communities. Factors such as increased blood pressure and inadequate healthcare access have fueled rises in mortality rates, exacerbated by the impact of COVID-19 on health outcomes. Delayed emergency care during the pandemic has further complicated efforts to control these preventable deaths.
Chronic lower respiratory diseases have shown varying trends in preventable premature deaths, with declines observed in some urban areas but stability in others. The impact of COVID-19 on mortality rates from these diseases underscores the interconnected nature of health outcomes and the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing preventable deaths in both rural and urban regions.