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| Cardiac health in rural areas-disparities and challenges: Dr Sushil | | |  Early Times Report
JAMMU, Jan 19: To strengthen their campaign further to aware the common populace about the ill effects of Cardiovascular diseases Head Department of Cardiology GMCH Jammu Dr Sushil Sharma in collaboration with Shri Ram Krishan Jan Kalyan Mission Trust held a day long cardiac awareness cum health check camp at Shri Raghunath Dham Bhojpur R S Pura, Jammu in loving memory of Late Shri Yashpal Sharma Ji ( former MLC J&K ) who will continue to inspire upcoming generations to work for upliftment and betterment of society in their diverse sectors.
While interacting with the people Dr Sushil Stated that Cardiac health is a critical component of overall well-being, yet significant disparities exist between rural and urban populations. Individuals living in rural areas often experience higher rates of heart disease and related conditions, exacerbated by systemic inequalities in access to healthcare, socioeconomic factors, and lifestyle challenges. Understanding these disparities is vital for creating targeted solutions to improve cardiac health outcomes in rural communities. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death and rural populations are disproportionately affected. Studies show that residents in rural areas have higher rates of hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and smoking as key risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Limited access to preventive care often means that these conditions go undiagnosed or poorly managed, leading to more severe outcomes such as heart attacks and strokes.
He elaborated that one of the primary reasons for these disparities is the lack of access to healthcare facilities and specialists in rural areas. Rural regions often face shortages of primary care physicians and cardiologists, making timely diagnosis and treatment difficult. Additionally, rural residents may need to travel long distances to access care, a barrier that is further complicated by inadequate public transportation and financial constraints. Emergency care for acute cardiac events is also delayed in rural areas due to the longer response times of emergency medical services (EMS). Socioeconomic disparities play a significant role in cardiac health outcomes in rural areas. Poverty rates tend to be higher in rural communities, limiting individuals' ability to afford healthy food, medications, and regular medical check-ups. Educational gaps also contribute to poorer health literacy, making it difficult for residents to understand and manage their risk factors. For example, rural individuals may lack awareness of the importance of routine screenings for hypertension or cholesterol, which are crucial for preventing heart disease.
He added that Efforts to reduce disparities in cardiac health in rural areas require a multifaceted approach. Expanding access to healthcare through telemedicine is a promising solution, as it allows rural residents to consult with specialists without the need for travel. Increasing funding for rural healthcare facilities and incentivizing healthcare providers to work in underserved areas can also make a significant difference. Community-based interventions, such as public health campaigns to promote healthy lifestyles, are another critical component. Educating rural populations about the importance of heart health and preventive care can empower individuals to make informed choices. Policymakers must also address systemic issues, such as improving infrastructure for transportation and increasing access to affordable healthy food options. He Said
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