Using expansive data sets collected from at least 30 sources—ranging from accredited survey organizations to government agencies like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)—the UHF analyzes the way each state performs in a comprehensive number of health measures within the following main categories: behaviors, community and environment, policy, clinical care, and outcomes. Then, the foundation calculates a score for each state based on a composite index of these health measures. States with a score above zero have a population whose overall health status is above the national average and states with a score below zero fall below the national average when it comes to the overall health of their residents. With that, these were the 10 unhealthiest states in America in 2019, including the main problem areas for each. And for more on how where you live impacts your life, check out Here’s How Long You’re Likely to Live in Every State. Overall score: -0.493 Problem health areas: Smoking, mental health care, and immunization coverage for children Overall score: -0.595 Problem health areas: Child poverty, low birth weights, and frequent mental distress And for more health concerns to be aware of, check out 40 Subtle Signs Your Body Is Telling You Something’s Seriously Wrong. Overall score: -0.609 Problem health areas: Physical activity, mental health, and high cancer death rate Overall score: -0.641 Problem health areas: Smoking, violent crime, and frequent physical distress Overall score: -0.657 Problem health areas: Obesity, child poverty, premature deaths And if you want to live a long, healthy life, check out 50 Important Habits Linked to a Longer Life. Overall score: -0.777ae0fcc31ae342fd3a1346ebb1f342fcb Problem health areas: Smoking, lack of health insurance, high infant mortality rate Overall score: -0.820 Problem health areas: Diabetes, dental care, and heart disease And if you’re worried about your cardiovascular health, check out 30 Warning Signs Your Heart Is Trying to Send You. Overall score: -0.836 Problem health areas: Obesity, child poverty, and physical distress Overall score: -0.912 Problem health areas: Obesity, child poverty, and heart disease Overall score: -1.005 Problem health areas: Obesity, child poverty, and heart disease And for more helpful information delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.
