Definition of theme Why is this theme important to small towns? What are the consequences of small towns ignoring the theme? Some of the barriers to healthy living in a small town include: Reduced access to health services, leading to a reduced quality of life particularly for elderly and disabled residents; Limited or unsafe access to the surrounding natural landscape, reducing its ability to be used for physical activity; Limited access and/or lack of culture in support of lifelong learning; Higher dependency on cars for transport, leading to reduced physical activity as well as a higher rate of obesity and related health problems; Limited access to sexual health information or products, leading to an increased teenage pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease rate; or Higher levels of long term unemployment and/or low wages; A general feeling of isolation or deprivation, which can lead to substance abuse, depression or other forms of mental health problems. What have we discovered about this theme? Case Studies What we recommend Strategy Wheel Content