Census data shows the life expectancy rate for rural Americans has dropped over time and is now less than that in urban areas. It is something the National Rural Health Association has been studying and says there is one major reason for the switch.
“Lack of access to healthcare, first and foremost, and if you can’t get to your doctor for preventive care or a checkup, you wait until things get really bad, and then you go into the emergency room. Environmental issues. You know, for our ranchers and farmers, that’s a tough, difficult profession to be in by itself. Then you get into lifestyle choices, a lot of processed fast food, which is easy to get and cost less, well that impacts your health. And then on top of that, you just have higher rates of obesity, diabetes, and cancer across the board,” said Alan Morgan.
The 2022 Census of Ag showed around 60 percent of farmers received healthcare in the past year.
Slightly higher sales amid shrinking acreage and inventories point to tighter supplies supporting catfish prices.
February 16, 2026 04:00 PM
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Winter Weather Shapes Markets and Early Fieldwork Nationwide
February 16, 2026 03:19 PM
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Phibro’s Medicated feed additives are helping cattle strive right from the very start.
February 16, 2026 11:33 AM
Rising Chinese feed output — especially for swine — signals sustained demand for protein meals and feed inputs, even when meat production growth appears modest.
February 16, 2026 11:30 AM
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The USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) has issued final Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) payments totaling more than $1.89 billion.
February 16, 2026 10:55 AM
The National Farm Machinery Show is underway in Louisville, Kentucky, bringing together the latest in agricultural equipment, technology, and innovation. Here are some highlights from the trade show floor so far!
February 13, 2026 05:15 PM
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