RISK FACTORS FOR POOR HEALTH OUTCOMES IN REMOTE AND DIGITALLY DISCONNECTED COMMUNITIES

Abstract

Background: Remote and digitally disconnected communities experience significant health disparities due to limited access to healthcare, poor socioeconomic conditions, and lack of digital resources. These challenges contribute to higher rates of preventable diseases and delays in medical intervention.

Objective: This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with poor health outcomes in remote communities of Pakistan and assess the role of healthcare accessibility, digital connectivity, and socioeconomic constraints in worsening these disparities.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from April 2024 to October 2024 in five rural areas of Khyber and Sindh, Pakistan, including Chitral, Upper Dir, Ghotki, Tharparkar, and Umerkot. A sample of 420 participants was selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through structured interviews, anthropometric measurements, and standardized health assessment tools. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, employing chi-square tests and logistic regression to identify significant predictors of poor health outcomes. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all participants.

Results: The prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, malnutrition, anemia, and respiratory diseases was 35.7%, 28.6%, 42.9%, 33.3%, and 31.0%, respectively. Limited healthcare access was a major concern, with 45.2% residing over 10 km from a health facility, 59.5% lacking digital health resources, and 40.5% unable to afford medications. Digital connectivity remained low, with only 33.3% having internet access and 21.4% utilizing digital health services.

Conclusion: Health disparities in remote communities are driven by financial constraints, inadequate healthcare facilities, and poor digital access. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure and digital inclusion strategies can mitigate these inequalities and improve health outcomes.