Study shows health risks higher for rural residents

By Crystal Reed, Fern Alling and Tom Barton, Iowa Farmer Today
Aug 1, 2026
Aug 1, 2026

farmer walking by planter in field — Research has found rural residents have higher rates of chronic illness such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes compared to those living in urban areas.
IFT photo by Benjamin Herrold

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By Crystal Reed, Fern Alling and Tom Barton, Iowa Farmer Today

At a time when rural healthcare availability is under threat, the need for care in rural areas is proving greater than in urban areas.

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