Current and Emerging Rural Health Issues in the Southeast United States

This book provides an insightful examination of various health challenges affecting rural communities in the Southeast United States (e.g., Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Mississippi, Louisiana, Tennessee). These areas are contending with a shortage of healthcare providers, inadequate infrastructure, an aging population, and limited economic and political resources, which contribute to significant and often overlooked health needs. Adopting an interdisciplinary approach that encompasses economics, geography, history, policy, and sociology, the book addresses critical topics such as diabetes, a leading cause of mortality both in the United States and worldwide. Over the past two decades, the Southeastern U.S. has experienced a public health concern related to diabetes, disproportionately affecting minority populations. The region's diabetes prevalence is particularly high in rural areas. The book also discusses rising obesity rates, cardiovascular diseases, and hypertension. The severity of these health conditions is closely linked to a range of economic, social, and geographical factors. Additionally, the book features an insightful chapter on emerging health issues and the effects of natural disasters. It explores the critical challenges faced by rural communities in the aftermath of events such as floods, hurricanes, severe storms, and tornadoes, supported by relevant case studies. The concluding chapter addresses the increasing prevalence of extreme heat events in the region over recent years and offers resources for additional exploration of the topic.