Preventing Premature Deaths from the Top Five Causes of Death in Rural and Urban Counties of the United States, 2010–2022

In a recent study, researchers found that rural residents, especially those living in noncore counties, experienced high rates of preventable premature deaths. Disparities in premature deaths were not only linked to where people lived, but also to other demographic factors such as sex, race, and ethnicity. For instance, rural counties with a majority Black, African American, American Indian, or Alaska Native population had the highest rates of premature deaths. To address these disparities, data on cause-specific premature deaths are crucial for informing interventions and health policies tailored to specific racial and ethnic groups.

The study also highlighted significant progress in reducing preventable premature deaths from cancer, particularly in urban counties with better access to preventive services and treatment. However, challenges remain, with rural areas still facing higher rates of premature cancer deaths. In terms of unintentional injuries, the study pointed to a growing epidemic of drug overdoses, traffic fatalities, and falls contributing to preventable premature deaths. Disparities in heart disease and stroke mortality were also observed, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Overall, while progress has been made in reducing preventable premature deaths, more efforts are needed to address disparities in different regions and among various demographic groups. The findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions and policies to ensure equitable health outcomes for all populations.