Syracuse (WSYR-TV/ABC News) - New rankings have been released indicating which are the healthiest and which are the least healthy states.
According to America’s Health Rankings’ annual report, Vermont is the healthiest state in union.
The report gave the Green Mountain State high marks because of its:
- High rate of high-school graduation
- Low violent crime rate
- Low incidence of infectious disease
- And high per capita public health spending
Hawaii was ranked second, followed by:
- New Hampshire
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Connecticut
- Utah
- New Jersey (and)
- Maine
Seven of the top 10 states are in the northeast.
Louisiana and Mississippi are tied for last place. Both states were cited for high obesity rates, diabetes, and sedentary lifestyles.
The authors say they hope the rankings prompt individuals, elected officials, medical professionals, and employers to improve public health.
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