Rural-Urban Differences in Provider Counseling About Physical Activity Among U.S. Adults

Physical activity is essential for preventing chronic disease, yet participation rates remain low, especially in rural communities where barriers such as limited infrastructure and fewer resources persist. Health professionals are trusted sources for promoting physical activity through counseling and referrals, but overall rates of such counseling are low, and rural-urban differences have not been well studied.

This study will use the National Health Interview Survey to 1) Examine rural-urban differences in the prevalence of health professional advice about physical activity; 2) Assess whether receiving advice is associated with meeting recommended physical activity guidelines; and, 3) Examine how these patterns vary by age, chronic condition prevalence, insurance, and other factors.

This research will provide insights to address rural physical inactivity and support efforts to promote physical activity engagement nationwide.