MINNETONKA, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 12, 2018--The nation’s obesity rate has reached the highest-ever level this year, according to the United Health Foundation’s 2018 . Obesity is a leading contributor to cardiovascular disease, cancer and other conditions. Additionally, an increase in drug deaths, suicides and cardiovascular disease deaths is contributing to an increase in premature death.

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In its 29 th year, the America’s Health Rankings Annual Report also reveals bright spots, including the reduced rate of childhood poverty and an increased number of mental health providers and primary care physicians per 100,000 people. Key findings include:

Obesity Prevalence Reaches All-Time High; Premature Deaths Continue to Increase

Suicide Rate Increases

Childhood Poverty Percentage Decreases; Number of Health Care Providers Increases

“This year’s Annual Report spotlights an obesity problem that continues to grow. This means more people will likely develop obesity-related chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer,” said Dr. Rhonda Randall, chief medical officer of UnitedHealthcare National Markets, and an adviser to America’s Health Rankings. “We encourage health professionals, public health officials and elected leaders to use these findings to explore opportunities to better support people in their communities in all aspects of their health.”

State Rankings in 2018: Hawaii Ranks No. 1, Louisiana Ranks No. 50 The Annual Report ranks Hawaii as the healthiest state in 2018, followed by Massachusetts (2), Connecticut (3), Vermont (4) and Utah (5). Louisiana ranks as the most challenged state this year, while Mississippi (49), Alabama (48), Oklahoma (47) and Arkansas (46) round out the states with greatest opportunities for improvement.

Maine, California and North Dakota experienced the largest rank improvements since last year, with Maine rising seven places to No. 16, and California and North Dakota jumping five places to No. 12 and 13, respectively. Oklahoma experienced the largest rank decline, falling four places to No. 47.

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In an effort to continually improve its offerings and capabilities, America’s Health Rankings now offers a new “Adjust My Rank” tool. This feature enables users to better understand their community’s and state’s diverse public health needs and challenges, to gain insights on how to improve their state’s rank.

America’s Health Rankings America’s Health Rankings Annual Report is the longest-running annual assessment of the nation’s health on a state-by-state basis. For 29 years, the report has analyzed a comprehensive set of behaviors, community and environmental conditions, policies, clinical care and outcomes data to provide a holistic view of the nation’s health. This report looks at 35 core measures across these categories.

About the United Health Foundation Through collaboration with community partners, grants and outreach efforts, the United Health Foundation works to improve our health system, build a diverse and dynamic health workforce and enhance the well-being of local communities. The United Health Foundation was established by UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) in 1999 as a not-for-profit, private foundation dedicated to improving health and health care. To date, the United Health Foundation has committed $430 million to programs and communities around the world. We invite you to learn more at www.unitedhealthgroup.com/SocialResponsibility

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CONTACT: The United Health Foundation

Jenifer McCormick

jenifer_mccormick@uhg.com, 952-936-1917

KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA HAWAII LOUISIANA MINNESOTA

INDUSTRY KEYWORD: SENIORS WOMEN HEALTH CARDIOLOGY FITNESS & NUTRITION HOSPITALS MENTAL HEALTH ONCOLOGY PHARMACEUTICAL OTHER HEALTH PHILANTHROPY PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CHILDREN HUMAN RESOURCES INSURANCE TEENS DIABETES CONSUMER FAMILY FOUNDATION GENERAL HEALTH MEN MANAGED CARE

SOURCE: United Health Foundation

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PUB: 12/12/2018 08:00 AM/DISC: 12/12/2018 08:01 AM

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