Chapter 4 :Geographic location

Question 1

What are the biological impacts of living in rural and remote regions? 2

What do they do?

Answer 1

• Higher rates of high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and impaired glucose regulation: increases the risk of developing chronic conditions such as CVD, kidney failure, etc
• Higher rates of low birth weight: higher risk of chronic diseases in adulthood

Question 2

What are the sociocultural impacts of living in rural and remote regions? 3

What do they do?

Answer 2

Low levels of education (may not be many schools nearby): unaware of the risk factors of many diseases (lack of health literacy). They might be more likely to consume alcohol excessively, smoke, misuse drugs, increasing risk of CVD, cancers, respiratory problems, etc

Unemployment and financial stress: increased rates of anxiety and depression

Less likely to access health services

Question 3

What are the environmental impacts of living in rural and remote regions? 4

What do they do?

Answer 3

The harsh climate and UV exposure: increased risk of skin cancer (melanoma)

Lack of access to fresh food (i.e. supermarkets) in close proximity: not consuming the sufficient amount of nutritious foods can lead to deficiency conditions (e.g. anaemia, iron deficiency, and malnutrition.

Poor road quality: Increase risk of injury and transport accidents

lack of footpaths, lack of access to recreational facilities : reduced opportunity to be physically active