America’s health is improving — but Ohio still lags

A new state-by-state health report card shows that Americans, as a whole, are getting healthier — but Ohio has still some work to do.

Why it matters: America's Health Rankings — from the United Health Foundation, established by UnitedHealth Group — produces a "comprehensive portrait of health at both the national and state levels."

The big picture: The annual report analyzes nearly 100 measures to compare health and well-being across all 50 states.

• Rates for premature death, drug deaths, firearm deaths and homicides all fell. Rates of cancer screenings, physical activity and volunteerism all increased.

Zoom in: Ohio ranked No. 34 among all states. The state saw a decrease in drug deaths and physical inactivity, but continues to struggle across several social and economic measures.

• Ohio's biggest challenges include high rates of premature death, as well as a high prevalence of both mental distress and multiple chronic conditions.
• The state also saw significant increases in air pollution and housing cost burdens.

Go deeper: Read the full report