Disparities in Childhood Obesity: A Comparative Analysis of Rural and Urban Environments in the United States: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Objectives:To examine the factors contributing to childhood obesity in rural and urban regionsin the United States.Methods:A structured narrative review was conducted using Google Scholar, PubMed, and government health websites. Search terms included combinations of “childhood obesity,” “rural vs urban health,” “health disparities,” and “socioeconomic factors” using Boolean operators.Articles published between 2008 and 2024 were considered. Studies were included if they focused on U.S. children (ages 2–19) and examined rural–urban differences in obesity. A total of 12 studies were selected following screening and analyzed using a thematic synthesis approach, with basic appraisal of study quality.

Results:The findings indicate that rural children experience higher obesity rates compared to urban children due to limited healthcare access, food insecurity, reduced opportunities for physical activity, and increased exposure to socioeconomic stressors. Environmental limitations and behavioural patterns such as sedentary lifestyles and emotional eating further contribute to this disparity.

Conclusion:Addressing rural childhood obesity requires targeted, multi-level interventions that consider social determinants of health. Improving access to healthcare, nutrition education, and community-based resources is essential for reducing disparities and promoting long-term health outcomes.

Keywords:Childhood obesity, rural health, urban health, health disparities, socioeconomic factors.