Rural America is home to 66 million people, about 1 in every 5 Americans. Yet where someone lives can still have a profound impact on how long and how well they live. People in rural communities live almost three years less than people in urban areas, while heart disease and stroke continue to take a disproportionate toll.

The challenges go beyond individual health choices. Rural communities often face shortages of health care professionals, long distances to hospitals and clinics, and fewer resources to prevent and manage chronic conditions. Higher rates of tobacco use, physical inactivity, obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure can add to these challenges.

But rural communities are more than the health challenges they face. Strong relationships, trusted local leaders and a culture of neighbors helping neighbors are powerful assets for building healthier communities. Through community readiness, self-managed blood pressure education, nutrition security and trusted local Community Connectors, the American Heart Association is working alongside rural communities to help ensure lifesaving resources and care are available closer to home.