Data: United Health Foundation; Cartogram: Axios Visuals
Virginia is among thehealthiest states in the country, ranking 14th in a new state-by-state report card from the United Health Foundation.
Zoom in: We score well on:
Low illegal drug use
Strong economic status
Air pollution levels
Yes, but: We still have:
Higher prevalence of multiple chronic conditions
A troubling share of low birth weight infants
Elevated levels of adults reporting behaviors tied to increased HIV exposure
Between the lines: Virginia also ranks low for racial disparities in homeownership (41), racial segregation in neighborhoods (35), public health funding (34) and drinking water violations (31).
But overall, we're doing better than our neighbors in North Carolina, Kentucky, West Virginia and Tennessee.
Maryland is a few rankings ahead at No. 8.
Zoom out: Nationally, the report finds a few encouraging signs:
Rates for premature death, drug deaths, firearm deaths and homicides all decreased.
Meanwhile, rates of cancer screenings, physical activity and volunteerism all increased.