There are 38 counties in the targeted MDCC Arkansas Delta region encompassing 26,235 square miles on half (50%) of Arkansas' land mass and contains a population of 853,959 representing 32% of the total Arkansas population.  More than half of the Delta Region's population is rural, with 55% of the population residing in communities of less than 2,500 compared to 48% for the state population.  Although it is generally recognized that rural populations are characterized by more serious health care shortages and health problems, you have demonstrated your desire to achieve or maintain good health by first becoming your own advocate.