Study tracks why rural residents face higher chronic disease risks
· News-MedicalKrysta Younker, Franklin Parish Community Engagement SpecialistAs someone who lives and works in this community, it means a lot to me to be involved in a study dedicated to improving the health and well-being of our region. The release of the data book is an exciting milestone, and I'm proud to be a part of a project that turns local voices into meaningful action."
Located in northeastern Louisiana, Franklin Parish is home to approximately 19,774 residents, with about 63% identifying as White and 33% identifying as Black or African American.
Researchers identified several key findings from the Franklin Parish data that help build a clearer picture of the health challenges facing rural communities and may help explain persistent health risks. Among the most notable findings, 82% of adults in Franklin Parish have overweight or obesity - significantly higher than both the Louisiana average (72%) and the national average (68%). Researchers found obesity rates were elevated across all demographic groups in the parish.
The study also found rates of high blood pressure, or hypertension, were higher among Franklin Parish residents than across Louisiana overall. Researchers observed a clear relationship between income and health outcomes, with residents in the highest income brackets experiencing the lowest rates of hypertension. When examining undiagnosed and uncontrolled hypertension, researchers found uncontrolled high blood pressure remained prevalent across nearly all demographic groups. Older residents were also more likely to have undiagnosed cases of high cholesterol and diabetes.
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