Korean Journal of Community Nutrition · Oct 31, 2026

Assessment of health and nutrition issues and strategic directions for tailored nutrition management in a rural area of Gangwon State, Korea: a mixed-methods study

By Jang E, Kim J, Jang J et al.

Objectives: Rural areas face distinct health and nutrition challenges, including limited healthcare access and rapid population aging. This study assessed health and nutrition challenges in a rural area of Gangwon State, South Korea, and identified directions for tailored nutrition management using a mixed-methods approach.Methods: A sequential mixed-methods design was applied. Community Health Survey (CHS) data (2020–2024) were analyzed to compare health indicators across national, provincial, and local levels. Baseline quantitative data were obtained from a community-based cohort of adults aged 20–69 years (n = 403). Qualitative data were collected through focus group interviews with residents and local stakeholders. A needs assessment survey (n = 98) identified program demand and priorities. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data using framework analysis.Results: CHS data showed that obesity prevalence in the study area was higher than that in national and provincial averages, particularly among young and middle-aged adults. The cohort data showed an obesity prevalence of approximately 45%, with no significant agegroup differences. Older adults had higher prevalence of abdominal obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, elevated blood pressure, and impaired glucose metabolism. Age-specific dietary imbalances were observed, with higher fat intake among younger adults and excessive carbohydrate intake among older adults; sodium intake exceeded recommended levels across all age groups. Focus group interviews revealed structural constraints on health behaviors, including limited food access, seasonal and geographic barriers, and rural lifestyle patterns involving frequent alcohol use. In the needs assessment, perceived seriousness of obesity was low, whereas demand for nutrition programs and willingness to participate were high.Conclusion: Health and nutrition problems in this rural setting may reflect individual behaviors and structural and environmental constraints. Preventive, family-based strategies targeting young and middle-aged adults are warranted. Tailored interventions integrating dietary improvement, physical activity, and local context are needed to reduce health disparities and improve community health.

doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2026.00178Open accessPubMed 42978356Populations