Copyright information

All material appearing in this report is in the public 

domain and may be reproduced or copied without 

permission; citation as to source, however, is 

appreciated.

Suggested citation

Brett KM, Hayes SG. Women’s Health and Mortality 

Chartbook. Washington, DC: DHHS Offi ce on Women’s 

Health. 2004.

Website

For more information about Healthy Women: State 

Trends in Health and Mortality, or to access data fi les 

directly, visit: 

 http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm

DHHS Pub. No. 04-1032
Women’s Health and Mortality

Chartbook

The Lewin Group is a premier national health and human services consulting fi rm with 34 years of experience 

delivering objective analyses and strategic counsel to prominent public agencies, non-profi t organizations, and 

private companies across the United States.

Kate M. Brett, Ph.D., NCHS

Suzanne G. Haynes, Ph.D., OWH

Prepared by

The Lewin Group, Inc.

August 2004
Department of Health and Human Services

Tommy G. Thompson

Secretary

DHHS Offi ce on Women’s Health

Wanda K. Jones, Dr. P.H.

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health (Women’s Health)

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Julie L. Gerberding, M.D., M.P.H.

Director

National Center for Health Statistics

Edward J. Sondik, Ph.D.

Director
Acknowledgements

There are several people who made signifi cant contributions toward the completion of this chartbook. The 

following staff at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics and The 

Lewin Group were actively involved in the production of the Women’s Health and Mortality Chartbook: 

Marihelen E. Barrett, Debjani Bhaumik, Carrie E. Blakeway, Debora L. Faulk, Susan L. Green, Sarah M. Hinkle, 

Alison E. Horan, LaJeana D. Howie, John L. Kiely, Diane M. Makuc, Jennifer H. Madans, Jennifer D. Parker, 

Kathy J. Sedgwick, and Christina A. Worrall.

This chartbook would not be possible without the work that has gone into the creation of Healthy Women: State 

Trends in Health and Mortality. Trends in Health and Mortality. We would like to thank the following people for their help in putting together this We would like to thank the following people for their help in putting together this 

data resource: 

Anne L. Aikin, Robert N. Anderson, Phil R. Beattie, Yelena Gorina, Ali H. Mokdad, Cynthia A. Reuben, 

Louise Saulnier, Joanna T. Skilogianis, Donna F. Stroup, Rashmi Tandon, Stephanie J. Ventura, and 

Patricia L. Wilson.

Dedication

This publication is dedicated to our colleague and friend, Joanna Skilogianis, Ph.D., (1964-2004). Dr. Skilogianis 

served as the project manager for the Healthy Women project from 2000 until the end of her federal service in 

2003. Her skill at working with people as well as her capability to focus both on the overall mission of the project 

and on the many small details is evident in the quality and breadth of this data dissemination project. 

She will be deeply missed.

i
Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 1

Health Indicator Maps

Death rates

(Death rate maps have Red tabs at the outer edge of the page, for quick reference. Defi nitions of terms may be 

found in Appendix II.)

All cause death rates ................................................................................................................7

 All cause death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 – 2001

 Heart disease death rates .........................................................................................................8

 Heart disease death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 – 2001

 Coronary heart disease death rates ..........................................................................................9

 Coronary heart disease death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 – 2001

 All cancer death rates .............................................................................................................10

 All cancer death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 – 2001

 Breast cancer death rates .......................................................................................................11

 Breast cancer death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 – 2001

 Colorectal cancer death rates .................................................................................................12

 Colorectal cancer death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 – 2001

 Lung cancer death rates .........................................................................................................13

 Lung cancer death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 – 2001

 Stroke death rates ..................................................................................................................14

 Stroke death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 – 2001

 Chronic lower respiratory disease death rates .......................................................................15

 Chronic lower respiratory disease death rates among females aged 45 and older by State, 

 1999 – 2001

 Diabetes-related death rates ..................................................................................................16

 Diabetes-related death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 – 2001

 Infl uenza and pneumonia death rates ....................................................................................17

 Infl uenza and pneumonia death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 – 2001

 Unintentional injury death rates ............................................................................................18

 Unintentional injuries death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 – 2001

 Suicide rates ...........................................................................................................................19

 Suicide rates among females all ages by State, 1999 – 2001

 Health risk factors

(Risk factor maps have Orange tabs at the outer edge of the page, for quick reference. Defi nitions of terms may 

be found in Appendix II.)

 Diagnosed high blood pressure ..............................................................................................20

 Percentages of women aged 18 and older with diagnosed high blood pressure by State, 1999 – 2001

 Obesity .................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................21

 Percentages of women aged 20 and older who are obese by State, 2000 – 2002

 No leisure-time physical activity ............................................................................................ ............................................................................................22

 Percentages of women aged 20 and older who report no leisure-time physical activity by State, 

 2000 – 2002

Table of Contents

iii
 Binge drinking ..........................................................................................................................23

 Percentages of women aged 18 and older who report binge drinking by State, 1999-2001

 Smoking currently ...................................................................................................................24

 Percentages of women aged 18 and older who currently smoke by State, 2000 – 2002

 No smoking during pregnancy ................................................................................................. .................................................................................................25

 Percentages of mothers all ages who did not use tobacco during pregnancy by State, 1999 – 2001

 Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day ........................................................................................ ........................................................................................26

 Percentages of women aged 18 and older who eat at least 5 fruits and vegetables per day by State,

 2000 – 2002

Preventive care

(Preventive care maps have Peach tabs at the outer edge of the page, for quick reference. Defi nitions of terms 

may be found in Appendix II.)

 Cholesterol screening ..............................................................................................................27

 Percentages of women aged 18 and older who have had their blood cholesterol checked within the 

 last 5 years by State, 1999 – 2001

 Mammogram ............................................................................................................................28

 Percentages of women aged 40 and older who have had a mammogram within the last 2 years 

 by State, 2000 – 2002

 Pap smear ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................29

 Percentages of women aged 18 and older who have had a Pap smear within the last 3 years 

 by State, 2000 – 2002

 Blood stool test ........................................................................................................................30

 Percentages of women aged 50 and older who have had a blood stool test within the last 2 years 

 by State, 1999 – 2001

 Routine check-ups ...................................................................................................................31

 Percentages of women aged 18 and older who have had a routine check-up within the last 2 years 

 by State, 1998 – 2000

 Early and adequate prenatal care ............................................................................................32

 Percentages of mothers all ages who received early and adequate prenatal care by State, 1999 – 2001

Health insurance coverage

(The health insurance map has a Tan tab at the outer edge of the page, for quick reference. Defi nitions of 

terms may be found in Appendix II.)

Health insurance coverage ......................................................................................................33

Percentages of women aged 18 – 64 who have health insurance coverage by State, 2000 – 2002

State Profi les

Summary and tables for each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico .............. 37

Appendices

Appendix I: Data Sources ............................................................................................... 91

Appendix II: Defi nitions and Methods ............................................................................ 97

Appendix III: References ...............................................................................................105

iv
1

Introduction

The Women’s Health and Mortality Chartbook is a statistical resource on women’s health in each of the states, 

the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The chartbook was developed to provide readers with an easy-to-use 

collection of current state data on critical issues of relevance to women. A total of 27 different health indicators 

are featured, which highlight some of the key issues related to women’s health that are being measured regularly 

at the state level. It is intended to be used as a reference for policymakers and program managers at the Federal 

and state levels to identify key health issues of importance in each state. The chartbook may also serve to 

stimulate additional detailed questions regarding the specifi c populations of concern in each state for these and 

other health indicators. 

The data presented in this chartbook are taken from Healthy Women: State Trends in Health and Mortality (to 

be referred to as Healthy Women). Healthy Women was developed by was developed by the Department of Health and Human 

Services’ Offi ce on Women’s Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for 

Health Statistics as a tool to help identify vulnerable and underserved populations at the state level, where most 

decisions regarding health policy are developed and implemented. While the project provides data on health, 

health care, and risk behavior on all populations in each state for which data are collected, women’s health 

concerns have been targeted for inclusion, and racial and ethnic differences among women are a primary focus. 

The information presented in this chartbook represents only a small portion of the data available from Healthy 

Women, which addresses many other questions related to women’s health. , which addresses many other questions related to women’s health.

The Women’s Health and Mortality Chartbook Women’s Health and Mortality Chartbook is intended to present state data on women’s health in a straight- is intended to present state data on women’s health in a straightforward, user-friendly manner. More technically detailed publications can be obtained from the original data sources 

(National Vital Statistics System and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System) and from Healthy Women. 

Structure of the Chartbook

The fi rst section of the chartbook contains U.S. maps for each of the featured health indicators. Each health 

indicator is presented on a single map showing the variation in health status across the 50 states, the District 

of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The maps present geographic differences in either death rates or proportions of 

women with specifi c health characteristics. Data for each health indicator are divided into 5 categories (quintiles), 

with approximately 10 states in each category. Variations in health status are represented using a color gradation 

of dark to light, with dark colors representing poorer relative health status and light colors representing better 

relative health status across all maps.

The second section of the chartbook contains women’s health profi les for each of the 52 geographic areas 

presented. The profi les include a brief summary that highlights how each state or territory fares on the presented 

indicators, and provides some additional background information. Each profi le contains population statistics and 

data on each of the 27 featured health and mortality indicators, both among women overall and by race and 

Hispanic origin. The Healthy People 2010 target is included for comparison, where available.1 Finally, the state 

or territory’s relative ranking on each indicator is presented, with lower numerical ranking values indicating better 

health status relative to other states and territories. 

The third section of the report includes information on the sources of data (Appendix I), explanations of terms 

and analytic issues (Appendix II), and references (Appendix III).

How indicators were selected

The Women’s Health and Mortality Chartbook Women’s Health and Mortality Chartbook features 27 different health indicators taken from features 27 different health indicators taken from Healthy Women,

covering a wide range of health issues for women. The Department of Health and Human Services’ Offi ce on 

Women’s Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics chose 
2

these indicators through careful review of the available data. These 27 indicators were chosen for the following 

reasons: 

• They are regularly measured at the state level.

• They cover a wide range of mortality, morbidity, health risk factors, preventive services, and access to health 

care concerns.

• They cover a wide spectrum of disease types. 

• They cover the full lifespan of women, from young adults to older women.

These broad criteria, combined with priorities set forth in two Department of Health and Human Services initiatives, 

Healthy People 2010 and Steps to a HealthierUS determined the fi nal selection of indicators presented. Indicators 

available to measure either Healthy People 2010 or Steps to a HealthierUS objectives at the state level were chosen 

over other indicators, and the measure of the indicator used was formulated as defi ned by the HHS initiative. 

However, readers should be aware that both of these initiatives set targets for all of the U.S. and are not sexspecifi c. Therefore, text in the profi le summaries stating that a state has met a Healthy People 2010 target, for 

example, does not imply that the state as a whole has met the objective. It refers only to the women in that state.

Healthy People 2010 contains 467 objectives designed to serve as a road map for improving 

the health of all people in the United States during the fi rst decade of the 21st century. Healthy 

People 2010 builds on similar initiatives pursued over the past two decades. Two overarching 

goals--increase quality and years of healthy life, and eliminate health disparities--served as a 

guide for developing objectives that actually measure progress. Indicators were chosen based 

on their ability to motivate action, the availability of data to measure their progress, and their 

relevance as broad public health issues.1

Steps to a HealthierUS Steps to a HealthierUS is an initiative that advances President George W. Bush’s HealthierUS is an initiative that advances President George W. Bush’s HealthierUS 

goal of helping Americans live longer, better, and healthier lives. At the heart of this program lie 

both personal responsibility for the choices Americans make and social responsibility to ensure 

that policy makers support programs that foster healthy behaviors and prevent disease. The 

diseases targeted in this program are: diabetes, obesity, asthma, heart disease and stroke, and 

cancer. The lifestyle choices being targeted are: poor nutrition and physical inactivity, tobacco 

use, preventive screening, and youth risk taking.2

Associations between indicators

Some of the risk factor indicators presented in the chartbook have previously been found to be associated with 

other disease or risk factor indicators that are included. In some cases, these associations are noted in the 

summary text accompanying the state profi les. These known associations are:

• High blood pressure is positively associated with heart disease (including coronary heart disease)3 and stroke.4

• Obesity is positively associated with hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.5, 6

• Leisure time physical activity is inversely associated with heart disease,7 stroke,7 diabetes,8 and obesity.9

• Smoking is positively associated with heart disease and cancer, as well as many other diseases.10, 11

• Smoking during pregnancy is positively associated with pregnancy complications, low birth weight delivery, 

and increased infant mortality and morbidity.10

• Binge drinking is positively associated with organ damage, motor vehicle crashes, and interpersonal 

violence.12

• Consumption of greater numbers of fruits and vegetables is associated with decreased obesity13 and cancer.14

Furthermore, many of the preventive service indicators presented are useful in reducing morbidity and mortality 

of some of the other indicators. These include:

• Cholesterol screening reduces heart disease mortality.15

• Mammography reduces breast cancer mortality.16
3

• Blood stool testing reduces colorectal cancer mortality.17

• Adequate prenatal care is associated with improved birth weights, and decreased risk of preterm delivery, 

maternal mortality, and infant mortality.18

While all of these associations have been well documented, the studies investigating disease relationships do so 

at the level of the individual. That is, this type of research measures risk factors or preventive care and health 

outcomes on individual people and then makes statistical summaries over the group of people being studied. 

These same associations may not exist at the state level because many factors infl uence disease. For instance, 

there are states with a high proportion of women who reported receiving regular mammograms where the breast 

cancer death rate is also high. This should not be seen as evidence that mammography does not reduce breast 

cancer death. Rather, incongruent indicators at the state level should be noted and further investigated.

How comparisons were made

Rankings

Every state and territory was assigned a ranking for each indicator, indicating how women in that geographic 

area fare compared to other geographic areas. The rankings were assigned based on the “state total” value for 

that indicator. Low numbered rankings indicate better health and high numbered rankings indicate poorer health. 

Rankings compare the states and territories on women’s health status only.

Profi le summaries

Each profi le shows data for a particular state across each of the 27 health indicators. A few signifi cant or 

noteworthy fi ndings for each state and territory are highlighted in summaries at the top of the profi les. The profi le 

summaries are not comprehensive descriptions of the data included in the tables. Rather, they are intended to 

provide a brief overview of women’s health in that state or territory and to put some of that information into a 

national or regional context. 

In general, the summaries note particularly low (best 10) and high (worst 10) rankings, health status that 

is either near to, or far from, the goals of Steps to a HealthierUS Steps to a HealthierUS or the targets of Healthy People 2010, and or the targets of Healthy People 2010, and 

considerable or noteworthy racial differences in women’s health. Specifi cally, indicators for which a state or 

territory ranked in or near the top ten or bottom ten are generally noted in the summaries. High and low rankings 

on indicators relating to Steps to a HealthierUS Steps to a HealthierUS are pointed out. Healthy People 2010 targets are highlighted are pointed out. Healthy People 2010 targets are highlighted 

under the circumstances described below. 

For several of the presented indicators, few states or territories have met the Healthy People 2010 targets 

among women. For these indicators, it was generally noted if women in a state or territory had already met the 

target. These include:

• Diabetes-related death (females in Arizona, Florida, and Nevada have met the target)

• Total cancer death (females in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Nebraska, New 

Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Puerto Rico have met the target)

• Breast cancer death (females in Hawaii, Utah, and Puerto Rico have met the target)

• Colorectal cancer death (females in Hawaii, Idaho, Utah, and Puerto Rico have met the target)

• Chronic lower respiratory death (females in Hawaii have met the target)

• Stroke death (females in the District of Columbia, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Puerto 

Rico have met the target)

• Unintentional injury death (females in California, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, 

Rhode Island, and Puerto Rico have met the target)

• Obesity (women in Colorado have met the target)

• Leisure-time physical activity (women in Washington and Utah have met the target)
4

For a few of the presented indicators, women in most states and territories have already met the Healthy People 

2010 target. For these indicators it was generally noted if women in a state or territory had not met the target 

among women. These indicators include:

• Lung cancer death (females in Alaska, Delaware, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri, Nevada, Oklahoma, 

Oregon, Washington, and West Virginia have not met the target)

• Coronary heart disease death (females in the District of Columbia, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New 

Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and West Virginia have not met the target)

• Mammograms (women in Arkansas, Idaho, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming 

have not met the target)

Health indicator ranges

There are two issues regarding the range of values presented in the health indicators which deserve mention.

The fi rst is that for some indicators, even geographic areas with the best rankings do not meet standards of good 

health. For example, in the states with the best rankings on leisure-time physical activity, almost 20 percent of 

women participated in no activity. The Healthy People 2010 objective is to reduce the proportion of adults who 

engage in no leisure-time physical activity to 20 percent, and so most states have levels of physical inactivity that 

are well above what is desirable.1 Many of the reported indicators demonstrate that on a national basis, U.S. 

women are not meeting Healthy People goals.

The second issue is that the range of values in some of the indictors is relatively narrow. Therefore, the difference 

in the absolute value between states in the best quintile and those in the worst quintile may be very small. For 

example, the range of values for suicide mortality rates is 1.6 to 7.7. Having higher or lower rankings on these 

indicators may have less signifi cance than for other indicators where the range is greater.

Race and Hispanic ethnicity

Data on race and Hispanic origin are presented in the greatest detail possible, after taking into account the 

quality of data, the amount of missing data and the number of observations. For at least part of the time period 

being presented, the data collection systems were using the 1977 Offi ce of Management and Budget’s Standards 

for race data, which require the use of four racial groups and separate tabulations by Hispanic origin. More 

detailed racial analyses were therefore not possible. The large differences in health status by race and Hispanic 

origin documented in this chartbook may be explained by several factors including socioeconomic status, health 

practices, psychosocial stress and resources, environmental exposures, discrimination, and access to health care. 

Most of the racial differences noted in the text associated with the state table pages are not unique to the state, 

but generally follow patterns seen in the nation as a whole. 

Differences in health status between particular racial or ethnic groups and the white population were sometimes 

noted in the state profi le summaries. Only differences that were found to be statistically signifi cant were 

mentioned, although not every statistically signifi cant difference could be included. 
 Health Indicator 

Maps
7

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV PA 

PR

FL

All cause death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the Unites States: Mortality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Tre

http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm. 
8

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV PA 

PR

FL

Heart disease death rates among females all ages by State, 199

NOTE: Includes rheumatic disease, hypertensive heart and renal diseases, ischemic heart disease, pulmonary heart disease and diseases of pulmonary circulation, and other forms of hSOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the Unites States: Mortality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Trehttp://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm. 
9

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Coronary heart disease death rates among females all ages by State

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the Unites States: Mortality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Trehttp://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm. 
10

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

All cancer death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the United States: Mortality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Trehttp://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm. 
11

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Breast cancer death rates among females all ages by State, 199

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the United States: Mortality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Trehttp://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm.
12

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Colorectal cancer death rates among females all ages by State, 19

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the United States: Mortality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Trehttp://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm.
13

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Lung cancer death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the United States: Mortality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Trehttp://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm.
14

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV PA 

PR

FL

Stroke death rates among females all ages by State, 1999 – 

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the United States: Mortality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Trehttp://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm.
15

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

C

Chronic lower respiratory disease death rates among females aged 

by State, 1999 – 2001

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the United States: Mortality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Trehttp://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm.
16

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV PA 

PR

FL

Diabetes-related death rates among females all ages by State, 19

NOTE: Diabetes mellitus as the underlying or multiple cause of death. Excludes neonatal diabetes and diabetes complicating pregnancy, childbirth or the puerperium.SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the United States: Mortality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Trehttp://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm.
17

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Infl uenza and pneumonia death rates among females all a

by State, 1999 – 2001

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the United States: Mortality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Trehttp://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm.
18

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Unintentional injury death rates among females all age

by State, 1999 – 2001

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the United States: Mortality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Trehttp://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm.
19

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Suicide rates among females all ages by State, 1999 – 20

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the United States: Mortality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Trehttp://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm.
20

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Diagnosed high blood pressure

Percentages of women aged 18 and older with diagnosed high blo

by State, 1999 – 2001

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. As presented in Mortality Mortality. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm . http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm
21

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Percentages of women aged 20 and older who are obese by State, 

NOTE: Respondents with Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than or equal to 30.0 kg/m2 are considered obese. BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squarSOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. As presented in Mortality Mortality. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm . http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm

Obesity
22

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

No leisure-time physical activity

Percentages of women aged 20 and older who report no leisure-time p

by State, 2000 – 2002

NOTE: Respondents who answered “no” to the question “during the past month, did you participate in any physical activities or exercises?” are defi ned as reporting no leisure-time phySOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. As presented in Mortality Mortality. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm . http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm
23

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Percentages of women aged 18 and older who report binge d

by State, 1999 – 2001

NOTE: Respondents defi ned as binge drinkers had 5 or more drinks on at least one occasion in the last month.SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. As presented in Mortality Mortality. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm . http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm

Binge drinking
24

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Smoking currently

Percentages of women aged 18 and older who currently smoke by Sta

NOTE: Respondents defi ned as current smokers smoke everyday or some days.SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. As presented in Mortality Mortality. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm . http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm
25

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Percentages of mothers all ages who did not use tobacco during 

by State, 1999 – 2001

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the United States: Natality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Trenhttp://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm. 

No smoking during pregnancy
26

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Eats 5+ fruits & veg. per day

Percentages of women aged 18 and older who eat at least 5 fruits a

per day by State, 2000 – 2002

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. As presented in Mortality Mortality. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm . http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm
27

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Percentages of women aged 18 and older who have had their blood cho

within the last 5 years by State, 1999 – 2001

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. As presented in Mortality Mortality. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm . http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm

Cholesterol screening
28

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Percentages of women aged 40 and older who have had a mam

within the last 2 years by State, 2000 – 2002

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. As presented in Mortality Mortality. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm . http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm

Mammogram
29

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Percentages of women aged 18 and older who have had a Pap 

within the last 3 years by State, 2000 – 2002

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. As presented in Mortality Mortality. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm . http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm

Pap smear
30

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Percentages of women aged 50 and older who have had a blood 

within the last 2 years by State, 1999 – 2001

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. As presented in Mortality Mortality. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm . http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm

Blood stool test
31

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Percentages of women aged 18 and older who have had a routine 

within the last 2 years by State, 1998 – 2000

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. As presented in Mortality Mortality. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm . http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm

Routine check-ups
32

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Percentages of mothers all ages who received early and adequate p

by State, 1999 – 2001

NOTE: Early and adequate prenatal care is a measure that combines the month prenatal care began and total number of prenatal care visits adjusted for length of pregancy.SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Statistics of the United States: Natality data as presented in Healthy Women: State Trenhttp://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm. 

Early & adequate prenatal care
33

WA

OR

CA

NV

AZ

UT

ID

MT

WY

CO

NM

ND

SD

NE

KS

OK

TX

AK

HI

MN

IA

MO

AR

LA

MS

TN

IL

WI

MI

IN

OH

KY

AL GA

SC

NC

VA WV 

PA 

PR

FL

Percentages of women aged 18 – 64 who have health insurance 

by State, 2000 – 2002

NOTE: Includes health insurance, prepaid plans such as HMOs, or government plans such as Medicare.SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. As presented in Mortality Mortality. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm . http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healhtywomen.htm

Health insurance coverage
State Profi les
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

37

Alabama Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 70.2% 27.0% 1.4% 0.5% 0.8% 2,300,596

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 798.9 954.2 225.7 324.5 377.8 828.9 † 47

Heart disease 236.6 275.9 59.0 * * 243.5 † 46

Coronary heart disease 132.1 147.5 * * * 134.4 166.0 25

Total cancer 164.5 183.1 53.9 * 72.8 167.6 159.9 25

Breast cancer 25.1 34.6 * * * 27.1 22.3 37

Colorectal cancer 14.6 22.1 * * * 16.1 13.9 12

Lung cancer 41.6 30.2 * * * 39.1 44.9 18

Stroke 63.8 82.1 * * * 67.3 48.0 43

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 117.0 37.5 * * * 100.3 60.0 17

Diabetes-related 59.5 124.7 * * * 72.6 45.0 34

Infl uenza and pneumonia 23.8 19.1 * * * 22.8 † 41

Unintentional injuries 33.4 29.0 * * * 32.0 17.5 48

Suicide 5.6 1.1 * * * 4.4 5.0 25

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 28.8 42.5 35.1 * * 31.6 ‡ 51

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 21.5 40.4 14.5 26.8 * 25.5 15.0 51

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 29.4 43.7 35.3 40.3 * 33.0 20.0 46

Binge drinking 6.3 4.6 * * * 5.7 † 12

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 24.3 15.7 25.1 42.7 * 22.5 12.0 31

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 83.2 94.6 98.0 79.7 96.9 87.4 99.0 24

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 23.1 20.9 24.9 * * 23.0 † 46

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 72.1 67.7 72.1 62.4 * 71.0 80.0 34

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 75.6 81.9 65.5 72.4 * 76.5 70.0 13

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 84.1 88.8 83.9 71.0 65.7 85.2 90.0 19

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 16.1 15.0 * * 45.7 15.9 50.0 51

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 86.9 94.7 92.8 76.6 96.9 88.9 † 28

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 83.3 67.6 49.9 73.0 77.1 77.2 90.0 17

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 84.4 74.4 80.1 72.2 89.9 81.7 100.0 37

AL Alabama is similar to many states in the South in having high rates of death among females due to heart 

disease and stroke. High blood pressure, obesity and physical inactivity are associated with these causes 

of death, and all are health risk factors for which Alabama ranks among the worst in the nation.3-7 The 

rates of obesity, high blood pressure and physical inactivity are especially high among black women in the 

state. Alabama ranks among the states with the lowest proportions of women who eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables 

a day. In addition, it has one the lowest percentages of women who have had a recent blood stool test, at test that aids 

in the early diagnosis of colorectal cancer.17
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

38

Alaska Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 69.3% 3.9% 4.2% 17.7% 5.5% 302,820

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 690.6 877.9 544.5 929.8 405.6 716.6 † 25

Heart disease 156.1 270.5 * 185.8 117.0 162.2 † 8

Coronary heart disease 97.4 * * 99.9 81.8 98.4 166.0 5

Total cancer 177.7 * * 196.3 78.5 172.4 159.9 35

Breast cancer 24.9 * * 22.1 * 23.7 22.3 7

Colorectal cancer 17.0 * * 28.9 * 18.8 13.9 35

Lung cancer 51.3 * * 47.0 * 46.7 44.9 46

Stroke 62.2 * * 71.8 * 64.0 48.0 37

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 119.7 * * 179.1 * 122.5 60.0 39

Diabetes-related 65.2 219.8 * 62.9 65.8 69.7 45.0 30

Infl uenza and pneumonia 14.0 * * * * 15.7 † 6

Unintentional injuries 28.6 * * 70.0 * 33.5 17.5 50

Suicide 5.5 * * 15.3 * 7.5 5.0 50

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 24.7 * * 32.1 * 26.5 ‡ 40

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 22.2 33.0 * 33.8 * 23.9 15.0 44

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 20.4 29.9 37.8 35.8 41.7 24.5 20.0 15

Binge drinking 9.7 * * 15.7 * 9.9 † 40

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 21.9 18.5 19.3 39.0 * 24.1 12.0 42

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 85.9 91.3 91.4 66.5 93.4 82.0 99.0 41

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 27.1 24.3 25.7 27.3 25.3 26.7 † 27

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 70.7 79.7 74.7 56.9 66.4 68.4 80.0 44

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 71.6 * 72.8 74.5 69.0 71.9 70.0 42

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 86.1 89.9 79.8 91.5 79.3 86.4 90.0 10

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 23.1 * * 8.5 * 20.1 50.0 49

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 87.3 79.2 89.4 90.0 97.1 88.0 † 34

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 74.6 76.1 71.2 50.6 62.8 67.9 90.0 45

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 82.6 87.1 81.6 75.1 64.3 80.4 100.0 41

Alaska ranks among the states with the lowest rates of death among females due to heart 

disease, breast cancer and infl uenza and pneumonia. The state is unique in that over 17 percent 

of its residents are American Indian or Alaskan Native (AI/AN) and there are notable differences 

in the health status of this group of women compared with the state’s white population. The 

state ranks among states with the highest death rates among females due to unintentional injury and suicide, and 

both of these causes of death are more prevalent among AI/AN females. Suicide rates among AI/AN women are high 

nationally and have been linked to the high incidence of depression, alcoholism, and domestic violence this population 

experiences.19 The percentages of AI/AN women who smoke during pregnancy and who do not receive early and 

adequate prenatal care are notably high.

AK
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

39

Arizona Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 65.6% 3.0% 24.4% 5.5% 2.3% 2,569,575

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 658.3 886.5 654.1 846.1 415.9 672.2 † 9

Heart disease 168.9 263.3 172.9 149.8 98.8 170.5 † 13

Coronary heart disease 128.4 217.2 131.2 99.7 79.5 129.6 166.0 20

Total cancer 156.6 179.6 127.1 114.9 98.9 152.8 159.9 6

Breast cancer 26.4 40.4 18.7 12.5 * 25.4 22.3 20

Colorectal cancer 15.2 18.6 12.1 * * 14.8 13.9 5

Lung cancer 41.8 40.3 16.7 * 22.0 38.3 44.9 13

Stroke 50.1 69.5 54.4 52.1 42.1 51.4 48.0 10

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 134.5 83.7 43.4 56.1 * 123.8 60.0 43

Diabetes-related 31.8 112.6 90.9 153.8 34.9 41.6 45.0 1

Infl uenza and pneumonia 20.2 15.8 23.5 43.9 * 21.1 † 32

Unintentional injuries 26.0 25.8 25.7 70.7 17.4 28.2 17.5 39

Suicide 7.1 * 2.6 4.9 * 6.1 5.0 46

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 16.5 * 15.7 * * 16.7 ‡ 1

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 15.2 25.6 27.0 33.2 * 17.8 15.0 9

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 23.3 * 46.7 35.3 * 29.4 20.0 35

Binge drinking 7.5 * 4.8 * * 6.7 † 16

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 23.4 * 12.6 9.9 * 20.0 12.0 12

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 88.7 89.0 97.5 96.2 97.3 93.0 99.0 4

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 30.4 * 35.0 26.2 41.0 30.9 † 13

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 77.7 66.3 67.6 62.8 * 74.1 80.0 19

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 77.8 89.2 72.0 56.5 * 76.1 70.0 16

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 85.0 89.3 83.4 79.4 75.8 84.5 90.0 23

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 37.2 47.2 26.3 * - 34.9 50.0 14

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 87.2 95.8 82.6 90.4 96.3 86.5 † 40

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 77.3 69.8 60.0 52.4 75.4 68.4 90.0 44

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 86.1 85.1 62.7 58.8 90.6 79.6 100.0 43

Arizona ranks among the states with the lowest rates of diabetes-related death and death from all 

cancers; it is one of few states in which females have already met the Healthy People 2010 death rate 

targets for these two causes of death. Arizona leads the nation with the lowest percentage of women 

with diagnosed high blood pressure. It is also among the states with the lowest levels of obesity among 

women. The state ranks among the best in having a high percentage of women who abstain from 

smoking during pregnancy. However, the percentages of Arizona’s Hispanic and American Indian/Alaskan Native (AI/AN) 

mothers who receive early and adequate prenatal care are notably low. Similarly, smaller proportions of Hispanic and 

AI/AN women age 18 to 64 have health insurance coverage than the state’s white population.

AZ
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

40

Arkansas Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 79.3% 16.3% 2.8% 0.8% 0.9% 1,368,707

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 778.6 996.0 239.3 287.2 430.1 797.6 † 43

Heart disease 224.4 303.7 * * * 231.5 † 41

Coronary heart disease 139.8 214.5 * * * 147.0 166.0 28

Total cancer 165.7 197.7 * * 93.9 167.8 159.9 26

Breast cancer 22.8 38.2 * * * 24.5 22.3 13

Colorectal cancer 17.6 26.9 * * * 18.6 13.9 33

Lung cancer 45.3 38.1 * * * 44.0 44.9 38

Stroke 73.8 91.6 * * * 75.3 48.0 51

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 111.9 39.8 * * * 103.1 60.0 21

Diabetes-related 46.8 136.3 * * * 56.3 45.0 6

Infl uenza and pneumonia 23.1 17.1 * * * 22.3 † 38

Unintentional injuries 30.2 25.6 * * * 28.8 17.5 42

Suicide 5.6 * * * * 4.8 5.0 37

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 25.8 39.3 34.1 21.3 * 27.7 ‡ 45

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 21.0 40.6 26.3 21.9 * 23.5 15.0 40

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 30.0 40.4 42.2 33.5 * 31.5 20.0 43

Binge drinking 4.5 6.0 * * * 4.8 † 7

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 26.2 19.1 21.1 40.4 * 25.1 12.0 45

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 77.5 90.0 96.7 76.2 95.4 81.5 99.0 44

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 23.4 24.7 21.2 29.9 30.7 23.8 † 44

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 68.9 65.4 57.2 70.8 64.2 68.0 80.0 47

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 70.2 68.6 64.8 64.7 * 69.9 70.0 45

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 80.3 82.8 83.6 69.4 84.6 80.5 90.0 47

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 24.4 11.8 32.5 * * 23.1 50.0 44

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 85.6 92.6 90.8 76.5 89.7 86.5 † 40

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 73.3 59.7 54.1 65.8 65.5 69.1 90.0 41

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 80.4 69.6 72.1 74.2 80.3 78.4 100.0 46

Arkansas has one of the highest rates of death among females due to stroke, a cause of death that 

is associated with high blood pressure, physical inactivity and smoking.4, 7, 11 All of these are risk 

factors for which Arkansas ranks among the worst in the nation. Arkansas ranks among states with 

the lowest rates of binge drinking among women. The state’s rankings are low across all presented 

measures of preventive care, with particularly low percentages of women who have had a recent 

cholesterol screening and women who have had a recent Pap smear. Arkansas has one of the lowest levels of health 

insurance coverage among women age 18 to 64. 

AR
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

41

California Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 48.7% 7.0% 31.5% 1.4% 12.6% 16,996,756

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 710.6 922.8 538.0 387.2 436.5 674.5 † 10

Heart disease 209.6 302.3 162.2 105.8 125.7 202.5 † 28

Coronary heart disease 170.7 249.6 134.2 87.0 105.0 165.4 166.0 39

Total cancer 173.6 202.3 113.8 71.4 106.7 158.9 159.9 13

Breast cancer 28.4 34.5 16.2 9.0 13.8 25.3 22.3 19

Colorectal cancer 16.4 24.3 10.5 * 11.0 15.6 13.9 8

Lung cancer 45.9 45.8 15.1 18.1 21.2 38.3 44.9 13

Stroke 61.8 88.0 49.1 32.4 55.2 61.8 48.0 33

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 139.5 86.1 47.3 72.6 38.9 114.4 60.0 35

Diabetes-related 61.6 162.1 112.3 76.9 61.7 73.6 45.0 38

Infl uenza and pneumonia 22.8 24.1 18.9 11.3 17.9 22.1 † 37

Unintentional injuries 17.7 20.2 13.2 11.6 12.3 16.2 17.5 7

Suicide 4.9 2.3 1.3 * 2.8 3.5 5.0 13

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 22.2 38.1 23.9 24.4 18.5 23.9 ‡ 26

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 18.9 34.2 28.8 23.8 5.2 21.3 15.0 28

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 18.4 32.7 42.5 27.1 27.4 27.8 20.0 28

Binge drinking 8.9 6.5 6.2 * * 7.1 † 19

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 16.7 18.8 9.9 26.1 6.2 13.9 12.0 3

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) --- --- --- --- --- --- 99.0 ---

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 31.6 30.5 33.4 29.0 39.5 32.8 † 8

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 75.9 76.6 67.7 70.3 73.0 73.1 80.0 22

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 76.9 77.0 74.1 * 64.1 75.0 70.0 25

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 83.6 87.9 81.2 93.2 68.5 81.7 90.0 42

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 33.6 18.4 18.2 * * 28.1 50.0 33

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 80.6 90.4 83.1 70.2 83.7 82.4 † 50

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 81.7 76.1 72.8 67.1 78.0 76.6 90.0 20

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 90.5 85.1 67.0 81.5 90.8 82.1 100.0 35

Females in California have among the lowest rates of death due to colorectal cancer and unintentional 

injuries, a category that includes motor vehicle crash fatalities. California ranks among the states with 

the best records on two measures of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ prevention 

initiative Steps to a HealthierUS: the percentage of women who smoke and the percentage of women : the percentage of women who smoke and the percentage of women 

who eat the recommended number of fruits and vegetables a day.2 Notably low percentages of 

California’s Asian/Pacifi c Islander population have received recent Pap smears. Overall, California ranks among the 

states with the smallest proportion of women who have had a recent routine check-up. 

CA
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

42

Colorado Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 76.2% 3.9% 16.4% 1.3% 2.8% 2,135,278

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 684.7 896.5 658.8 442.6 458.0 687.6 † 15

Heart disease 155.2 207.9 134.7 95.7 85.1 154.6 † 3

Coronary heart disease 102.6 143.1 93.1 61.2 64.9 102.5 166.0 7

Total cancer 152.2 191.0 121.4 59.0 97.9 149.3 159.9 5

Breast cancer 24.3 31.7 17.9 * * 23.6 22.3 6

Colorectal cancer 15.4 22.9 12.4 * * 15.3 13.9 7

Lung cancer 35.0 45.5 18.8 * * 33.5 44.9 7

Stroke 56.5 77.8 57.8 * 51.6 57.5 48.0 21

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 137.4 77.9 74.3 * * 129.3 60.0 46

Diabetes-related 46.5 122.5 118.4 77.7 42.2 54.3 45.0 5

Infl uenza and pneumonia 18.5 15.3 12.8 * * 18.1 † 12

Unintentional injuries 27.7 26.9 32.8 23.3 26.0 28.5 17.5 40

Suicide 6.5 * 3.2 * * 6.0 5.0 45

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 21.1 29.0 26.3 * * 21.8 ‡ 9

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 13.2 30.7 19.7 * * 14.9 15.0 1

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 17.9 31.4 38.8 24.9 * 21.7 20.0 7

Binge drinking 9.4 * 6.3 * * 8.6 † 34

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 20.3 23.7 19.9 35.7 * 20.3 12.0 16

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 88.8 88.0 93.9 83.4 96.9 90.4 99.0 12

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 28.6 21.2 26.2 48.9 44.8 28.9 † 18

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 73.1 75.9 59.1 85.7 68.0 71.1 80.0 32

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 73.7 * 64.4 76.8 72.2 72.2 70.0 40

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 84.6 80.8 79.0 83.8 80.8 83.6 90.0 30

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 38.9 * 28.0 68.9 * 37.6 50.0 11

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 87.3 95.7 90.3 94.5 88.3 87.9 † 35

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 75.3 63.9 54.7 58.2 70.9 68.8 90.0 43

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 88.1 93.8 62.2 74.8 91.8 83.4 100.0 33

Colorado has some of the lowest rates of death among females due to heart disease and cancer, 

including coronary heart disease, breast cancer, lung cancer and colorectal cancer. Colorado is 

among states with the lowest percentages of women with diagnosed high blood pressure and is 

the only state in which women have met the Healthy People 2010 target for obesity. It is among 

the states with the lowest levels of physical inactivity, a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services’ prevention initiative Steps to a HealthierUS.

2

 Colorado has one of the lowest percentages of pregnant women 

who receive early and adequate prenatal care. Levels of prenatal care for mothers and health insurance coverage for 

non-senior women are particularly low among Hispanics in the state.

CO
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

43

Connecticut Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 78.6% 9.4% 9.1% 0.4% 2.7% 1,756,246

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 649.5 778.1 491.8 361.1 326.9 663.6 † 6

Heart disease 182.9 211.8 140.6 * 105.1 186.7 † 21

Coronary heart disease 127.2 148.4 97.3 * 91.9 129.9 166.0 21

Total cancer 165.4 172.5 86.4 * 70.5 164.3 159.9 19

Breast cancer 26.4 29.7 11.6 * * 26.2 22.3 28

Colorectal cancer 17.3 22.3 * * * 17.6 13.9 22

Lung cancer 41.4 36.7 13.9 * * 40.1 44.9 22

Stroke 47.8 58.2 38.1 * * 48.8 48.0 7

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 103.0 57.7 69.8 * * 100.3 60.0 17

Diabetes-related 56.2 132.1 82.3 * 38.9 61.2 45.0 14

Infl uenza and pneumonia 19.3 17.0 13.3 * * 19.3 † 20

Unintentional injuries 17.6 19.2 13.7 * * 17.9 17.5 9

Suicide 3.3 * * * * 3.1 5.0 6

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 20.4 31.0 21.0 * * 21.0 ‡ 6

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 14.8 34.5 26.1 * * 17.0 15.0 4

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 21.7 41.4 44.2 52.3 24.9 25.7 20.0 20

Binge drinking 8.1 2.8 4.6 * * 7.2 † 21

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 20.9 20.5 14.5 23.0 * 19.9 12.0 11

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 91.6 91.6 92.8 79.7 99.0 92.0 99.0 7

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 34.2 25.0 27.2 32.8 33.3 33.1 † 6

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 79.7 74.1 74.1 72.1 69.5 78.4 80.0 6

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 83.2 77.8 84.8 90.8 * 83.0 70.0 3

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 87.6 83.6 83.2 81.5 61.4 86.1 90.0 13

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 39.6 34.2 30.5 * * 39.2 50.0 8

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 90.6 96.1 92.4 87.1 94.2 91.3 † 12

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 89.1 80.5 77.9 81.6 83.9 86.3 90.0 1

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 92.7 82.8 74.8 85.8 84.8 90.0 100.0 9

Connecticut has one of the lowest rates of death among females due to stroke in the nation, 

which may be attributed in part to the state’s low levels of high blood pressure and obesity among 

women.4-6 Connecticut ranks among states with the highest percentages of women who eat at least 

5 fruits and vegetables a day, an indicator of good nutrition. Connecticut ranks among the states 

with the best records across presented measures of preventive care. The state has the highest percentage of mothers 

who receive early and adequate prenatal care, and ranks among states with the largest proportions of women age 18 

to 64 who have health insurance coverage.

CT
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

44

Delaware Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 73.2% 19.9% 4.3% 0.4% 2.3% 403,059

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 733.5 905.5 643.2 * 388.8 762.0 † 34

Heart disease 210.3 265.7 189.6 * * 219.5 † 38

Coronary heart disease 160.1 196.5 * * * 165.6 166.0 40

Total cancer 181.8 211.7 137.4 * * 185.7 159.9 50

Breast cancer 27.0 35.5 * * * 28.7 22.3 46

Colorectal cancer 16.6 27.8 * * * 17.9 13.9 23

Lung cancer 49.8 49.3 * * * 49.6 44.9 49

Stroke 48.0 69.6 * * * 51.3 48.0 9

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 107.2 50.6 * * * 100.6 60.0 19

Diabetes-related 60.8 150.4 * * * 73.0 45.0 36

Infl uenza and pneumonia 22.5 14.0 * * * 21.7 † 35

Unintentional injuries 26.0 22.0 * * * 24.7 17.5 28

Suicide 5.6 * * * * 4.5 5.0 27

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 23.3 36.2 * * * 25.0 ‡ 32

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 16.6 36.2 18.6 * * 19.4 15.0 16

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 25.8 47.1 51.3 35.0 51.5 30.7 20.0 39

Binge drinking 10.1 3.5 * - * 8.4 † 31

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 24.8 18.3 14.9 * * 22.8 12.0 34

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 85.0 87.7 95.3 85.4 97.4 87.0 99.0 25

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 26.2 16.0 19.2 53.0 32.0 25.0 † 36

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 76.9 78.9 72.6 * 82.5 76.7 80.0 11

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 83.7 90.0 81.8 * 82.5 84.4 70.0 1

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 89.6 91.0 92.8 64.2 80.6 89.3 90.0 1

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 30.5 28.3 * * * 30.0 50.0 26

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 90.5 95.6 96.2 98.2 94.7 91.6 † 10

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 77.9 68.7 67.4 76.0 77.9 74.7 90.0 25

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 91.9 90.3 89.4 98.0 95.9 91.5 100.0 5

Delaware has some of the highest rates of death among females due to cancer in the U.S. The state is in an 

area along the Atlantic in the Northeast and South regions that has been identifi ed by the National Cancer 

Institute as having notably high rates of breast cancer.20 Delaware is one of few states in which women 

have not yet met the Healthy People 2010 target for lung cancer death. The state is among those with the 

best records on preventive care. It leads the nation in having the highest percentages of women who have had recent 

mammograms and Pap smears, tests that aid in the early detection of breast and cervical cancers. Delaware has one of 

the highest levels of health insurance coverage among non-senior women.

DE
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

45

DC

District of Columbia Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 27.1% 62.6% 7.0% 0.4% 3.1% 302,693

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 592.6 997.4 149.8 * 317.2 846.2 † 50

Heart disease 182.2 299.5 * * * 257.4 † 51

Coronary heart disease 151.4 243.7 * * * 210.6 166.0 52

Total cancer 161.7 218.7 * * * 194.4 159.9 52

Breast cancer 32.5 38.7 * * * 34.5 22.3 52

Colorectal cancer 15.1 28.0 * * * 24.0 13.9 52

Lung cancer 35.9 45.0 * * * 40.2 44.9 23

Stroke 38.4 50.7 * * * 45.8 48.0 4

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 84.6 58.2 * * * 63.9 60.0 2

Diabetes-related 30.4 146.2 * * * 109.5 45.0 52

Infl uenza and pneumonia 14.2 16.1 * * * 15.6 † 5

Unintentional injuries 13.9 23.7 * * * 19.9 17.5 11

Suicide * * * * * * 5.0 *

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 13.0 35.2 25.0 * * 27.4 ‡ 43

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 7.5 34.6 22.4 * * 24.2 15.0 45

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 10.1 32.7 34.9 * * 25.1 20.0 16

Binge drinking 14.3 5.7 * - * 8.3 † 30

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 14.5 20.8 14.4 * * 18.4 12.0 5

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 99.0 95.3 99.7 83.3 99.4 96.6 99.0 2

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 42.5 32.0 39.4 * 56.8 36.7 † 1

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 83.1 81.6 82.5 70.0 81.8 82.1 80.0 1

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 79.6 83.2 * * * 81.1 70.0 5

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 86.9 89.5 76.4 * 69.0 87.6 90.0 3

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 45.4 36.8 * - * 39.1 50.0 9

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 92.8 96.3 92.9 81.5 98.0 95.0 † 1

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 75.8 56.0 61.3 * 65.3 61.3 90.0 50

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 96.2 90.2 66.7 91.5 90.0 90.2 100.0 8

The District of Columbia’s small size, urbanicity and racial composition make it more comparable to 

urban cities than to states. Females in DC have the highest rate of death due to coronary heart disease in 

the nation. The city also experiences high rates of death among females due to total cancer, breast cancer 

and colorectal cancer. DC leads the nation in percentage of women who eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables a 

day, and ranks among states with the lowest percentages of women who smoke. Across presented measures 

of preventive care, DC ranks among states with the best records. It leads the nation in percentage of women who 

have received a recent routine check-up, and ranks among states with the highest level of health insurance coverage. 

However, a high percentage of mothers in the city do not receive early and adequate prenatal care.
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

46

Florida Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 66.4% 15.0% 16.4% 0.4% 2.0% 8,184,663

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 664.7 921.9 524.1 309.8 288.2 671.3 † 7

Heart disease 190.0 279.5 182.7 85.2 85.4 196.3 † 25

Coronary heart disease 153.9 221.6 154.8 58.7 70.4 158.9 166.0 34

Total cancer 163.9 174.1 105.3 55.8 64.3 157.2 159.9 10

Breast cancer 24.5 31.3 17.1 * 7.0 24.2 22.3 11

Colorectal cancer 15.5 21.6 14.5 * 7.0 15.9 13.9 11

Lung cancer 48.1 29.3 14.6 * 15.0 42.3 44.9 29

Stroke 46.6 83.5 32.3 * 31.8 47.9 48.0 5

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 115.3 58.0 55.1 * * 104.5 60.0 23

Diabetes-related 36.1 112.0 45.0 42.8 27.0 42.5 45.0 2

Infl uenza and pneumonia 13.2 15.5 13.4 * * 13.4 † 1

Unintentional injuries 24.6 21.8 15.5 * 9.1 22.4 17.5 20

Suicide 7.1 1.3 2.3 * * 5.4 5.0 40

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 22.1 35.5 25.3 28.5 * 23.9 ‡ 26

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 16.2 34.3 21.2 15.2 * 18.8 15.0 13

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 23.9 39.2 44.5 35.8 39.5 29.7 20.0 36

Binge drinking 9.1 4.0 3.4 * * 7.2 † 21

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 26.5 15.1 14.1 34.2 12.0 22.3 12.0 30

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 84.7 95.6 97.8 90.6 97.8 90.4 99.0 12

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 29.2 24.9 23.1 32.8 33.9 28.0 † 21

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 78.5 74.8 76.5 75.7 69.9 77.6 80.0 7

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 75.4 78.0 75.1 65.4 84.5 76.0 70.0 17

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 85.0 84.9 82.6 80.2 71.1 83.9 90.0 29

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 37.1 33.4 21.8 * * 34.6 50.0 15

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 88.8 94.3 89.0 87.2 87.5 89.5 † 24

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 81.6 69.6 73.5 57.8 79.5 77.0 90.0 19

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 82.9 78.5 64.5 72.4 82.2 78.7 100.0 45

FL

Females in Florida have some of the lowest rates of death due to cancer and infl uenza and pneumonia. 

It is also one of the few states in which females have already met the Healthy People 2010 targets for 

reducing stroke and diabetes-related death. Across most presented measures of preventive care, Florida ranks 

in the middle ranges. However it is among states with the highest percentages of women who have recently 

received a cholesterol screening, an important health risk prevention strategy for reducing rates of coronary heart 

disease and stroke.15 Florida has one of the lowest levels of health insurance coverage among women age 18 to 64, a 

rate of coverage that is particularly low among the state’s Hispanic population.
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

47

Georgia Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 63.2% 30.0% 4.3% 0.3% 2.3% 4,159,340

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 781.9 948.2 324.4 648.0 386.2 815.0 † 44

Heart disease 216.0 275.9 84.0 142.1 92.1 227.8 † 39

Coronary heart disease 126.8 165.5 48.7 * 59.0 134.2 166.0 24

Total cancer 162.1 178.4 72.3 170.9 79.5 164.3 159.9 19

Breast cancer 24.6 31.1 * * * 25.7 22.3 23

Colorectal cancer 15.1 24.1 * * * 16.9 13.9 17

Lung cancer 43.7 31.3 * * * 40.3 44.9 25

Stroke 64.8 84.5 34.1 * 51.0 69.1 48.0 47

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 129.1 50.4 * * * 110.8 60.0 31

Diabetes-related 52.7 114.5 29.4 * 34.2 65.8 45.0 22

Infl uenza and pneumonia 24.7 21.2 * * * 23.8 † 45

Unintentional injuries 29.7 23.8 16.0 * 13.6 27.6 17.5 37

Suicide 5.9 1.1 * * * 4.3 5.0 24

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 24.1 38.0 21.0 * * 27.6 ‡ 44

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 18.7 35.8 17.0 32.5 * 23.5 15.0 40

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 27.1 40.4 36.9 25.0 43.7 31.4 20.0 42

Binge drinking 5.5 4.3 * * - 5.1 † 9

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 23.7 15.6 18.1 27.9 * 20.8 12.0 20

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 87.1 95.4 99.1 91.7 98.4 91.4 99.0 9

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 26.7 20.1 18.0 42.4 * 25.1 † 35

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 75.9 74.4 * 78.8 * 75.0 80.0 17

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 75.4 76.3 73.9 * 73.1 75.5 70.0 20

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 85.9 89.4 86.0 87.9 74.4 86.8 90.0 6

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 31.0 23.7 * * * 29.5 50.0 30

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 87.4 93.6 89.7 76.1 89.9 89.3 † 25

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 83.8 74.1 69.5 74.8 81.9 79.2 90.0 12

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 86.6 79.7 72.4 79.7 94.3 84.0 100.0 31

Georgia is among the states with the highest rates of death among females due to stroke and infl uenza 

and pneumonia. The state is part of the “stroke belt” region in the South, where stroke death rates 

have been found to be higher than those found in the rest of the country.21 Women in Georgia have 

some of the highest rates of high blood pressure, obesity and physical inactivity, health risk factors that 

are associated with stroke.4-7 These three risk factors are found more frequently among the state’s large minority black 

female population than in Georgia’s white population. Georgia ranks among the states with the lowest levels of binge 

drinking among women. It has one of the highest percentages of pregnant women who abstain from smoking during 

pregnancy. 

GA
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

48

Hawaii Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black

Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 24.9% 1.8% 7.2% 0.4% 69.7% 602,866

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 587.8 605.4 890.0 1021.8 526.0 543.2 † 1

Heart disease 149.2 * 288.3 * 143.8 146.1 † 2

Coronary heart disease 87.4 * 159.2 * 82.9 84.5 166.0 1

Total cancer 140.8 * 184.6 * 123.3 127.7 159.9 3

Breast cancer 23.4 * * * 18.9 20.0 22.3 2

Colorectal cancer 12.5 * * * 12.8 12.6 13.9 1

Lung cancer 32.6 * * * 23.1 25.4 44.9 3

Stroke 50.9 * 93.8 * 57.7 55.9 48.0 19

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 88.0 * * * 34.8 48.8 60.0 1

Diabetes-related 38.6 * 164.2 * 72.3 65.1 45.0 21

Infl uenza and pneumonia 13.5 * * * 15.0 14.4 † 2

Unintentional injuries 15.1 * 23.6 * 15.3 15.2 17.5 5

Suicide 8.2 * * * 3.7 4.7 5.0 33

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 18.4 * 24.2 29.9 24.5 22.5 ‡ 14

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 14.4 23.0 21.3 31.2 14.2 15.2 15.0 2

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 14.7 20.7 30.9 29.8 26.8 22.8 20.0 11

Binge drinking 7.6 * * * 3.7 5.4 † 11

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 19.3 * 17.5 25.8 14.2 16.6 12.0 4

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 94.4 97.4 89.7 90.1 91.5 92.3 99.0 5

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 28.5 20.8 30.2 25.6 22.0 24.5 † 40

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 73.5 83.5 73.4 62.2 73.1 72.0 80.0 26

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 75.9 79.0 71.6 72.5 74.3 74.6 70.0 29

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 88.8 90.0 85.3 83.7 86.1 86.9 90.0 5

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 35.6 - 27.4 * 36.6 35.9 50.0 13

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 91.1 78.2 93.0 90.9 92.4 92.0 † 6

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 75.5 81.1 73.3 71.0 74.2 74.6 90.0 27

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 90.8 91.6 89.9 92.8 93.4 92.2 100.0 3

Hawaii is unique among U.S. states in that a majority of its residents are Asian or Pacifi c Islander. The 

state has some of the lowest rates of death found anywhere in the nation. The state is one of few in 

which females have met the Healthy People 2010 target for breast cancer and colorectal cancer death. It 

is the only state in which women age 45 and older have met the Healthy People 2010 target for chronic 

lower respiratory disease death. Hawaii has remarkably low levels of obesity and is also among the 

states with the lowest percentages of women who smoke. The state ranks among those with the highest 

percentages of women who have had a recent routine check-up and has one of the highest levels of 

health insurance coverage among non-senior women.

HI
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

49

Idaho Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black

Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 89.7% 0.4% 7.3% 1.6% 1.3% 645,293

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 692.0 1285.3 545.6 864.0 417.2 691.7 † 21

Heart disease 168.0 * 130.7 138.2 * 167.5 † 12

Coronary heart disease 109.3 * 100.7 * * 108.9 166.0 10

Total cancer 154.9 * 101.4 148.5 121.9 153.5 159.9 7

Breast cancer 25.3 * * * * 24.9 22.3 16

Colorectal cancer 13.7 * * * * 13.5 13.9 3

Lung cancer 34.5 * * * * 33.8 44.9 8

Stroke 66.0 * * * * 65.9 48.0 40

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 112.4 * * * * 110.7 60.0 30

Diabetes-related 65.8 * 121.1 * * 67.5 45.0 23

Infl uenza and pneumonia 21.7 * * * * 21.3 † 33

Unintentional injuries 28.6 * 30.3 * * 29.5 17.5 44

Suicide 6.2 * * * * 6.2 5.0 47

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 22.6 * 19.0 19.7 * 22.5 ‡ 14

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 19.1 * 31.4 37.4 * 19.6 15.0 19

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 20.6 * 28.0 28.9 * 21.3 20.0 6

Binge drinking 7.5 * 9.1 14.6 * 7.7 † 24

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 20.1 * 17.4 33.0 * 20.2 12.0 14

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 87.1 87.9 95.7 81.2 94.0 88.2 99.0 21

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 26.1 - 25.0 30.7 37.2 26.1 † 30

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 66.2 * 58.7 * 79.4 65.9 80.0 52

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 63.7 65.3 73.9 * 53.3 64.0 70.0 52

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 78.5 83.0 82.0 78.4 77.7 78.4 90.0 50

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 28.6 - * * * 28.4 50.0 31

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 82.1 67.8 83.1 84.0 87.0 82.2 † 51

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 74.6 65.0 58.5 59.1 69.5 72.3 90.0 34

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 81.5 94.1 68.5 63.8 85.4 80.6 100.0 39

Females in Idaho have some of the lowest rates of death due to total cancer, colorectal cancer and lung 

cancer. It is one of few states in which females have already met the Healthy People 2010 target for 

reducing deaths due to colorectal cancer. Idaho is among the states with the best ranking on level of 

physical inactivity among women. Increased exercise is an important component of the U.S. Department 

of Health and Human Services’ prevention initiative Steps to a HealthierUS.

2

 The state ranks among those with the 

lowest proportions of women who have had a recent routine check-up. Idaho is among the states with the lowest 

percentages of women who have received recent cholesterol screenings, mammograms and Pap smears.

ID
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

50

Illinois Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 69.0% 15.9% 11.4% 0.3% 3.7% 6,338,957

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 714.5 972.1 486.5 240.1 353.2 741.4 † 30

Heart disease 207.3 291.7 130.9 75.8 105.4 216.2 † 32

Coronary heart disease 152.5 218.3 101.3 * 87.7 159.4 166.0 35

Total cancer 174.9 220.3 98.7 * 81.0 176.5 159.9 42

Breast cancer 27.9 39.5 12.7 * 11.9 28.7 22.3 46

Colorectal cancer 19.0 26.8 9.9 * 10.1 19.5 13.9 44

Lung cancer 42.5 47.0 14.6 * 9.9 41.2 44.9 28

Stroke 57.6 69.1 35.2 * 38.5 59.2 48.0 26

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 102.5 68.7 39.5 * 25.5 96.1 60.0 13

Diabetes-related 62.0 109.6 86.2 * 49.0 68.0 45.0 25

Infl uenza and pneumonia 20.1 23.5 15.1 * 10.5 20.6 † 30

Unintentional injuries 19.7 24.3 15.1 * 7.6 19.9 17.5 11

Suicide 3.8 1.7 1.2 * * 3.1 5.0 6

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 22.7 32.6 22.9 * * 24.4 ‡ 28

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 19.2 35.1 28.1 29.3 * 22.0 15.0 33

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 25.8 38.8 45.2 34.1 43.7 31.3 20.0 41

Binge drinking 12.4 3.8 * * * 9.9 † 40

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 22.4 20.9 13.1 29.8 7.2 20.6 12.0 18

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 85.7 86.5 98.0 78.2 99.0 89.0 99.0 18

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 24.8 22.1 23.5 * 37.0 25.0 † 36

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 70.8 76.8 63.5 * * 70.8 80.0 36

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 75.1 77.1 73.1 54.2 * 74.5 70.0 30

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 81.9 87.0 80.3 * 71.9 81.8 90.0 41

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 30.1 35.0 * * - 29.7 50.0 28

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 89.5 95.9 89.7 95.2 88.6 90.6 † 17

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 82.6 64.3 65.7 68.7 75.3 75.4 90.0 24

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 91.5 81.0 69.9 83.2 92.5 87.0 100.0 23

Illinois is among the states with the highest rates of death among females due to breast cancer and 

colorectal cancer. The state has one of the lowest rates of suicide among females, a measure related to 

mental health status. Illinois has one of the highest levels of physical inactivity among women, a health risk 

on which the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ prevention initiative Steps to a HealthierUS 

is focused.

2

 The percentages of black, Hispanic and Asian/Pacifi c Islander women who report no leisure-time physical 

activity are especially high. Illinois has one of the highest levels of reported binge drinking among women, a health risk 

factor associated with organ damage, as well as an increased risk of motor vehicle crashes and interpersonal violence.12

Illinois ranks in the middle ranges across most presented measures of preventive care.

IL
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

51

Indiana Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 86.7% 8.8% 3.1% 0.3% 1.1% 3,098,011

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 770.8 965.2 551.2 298.6 376.8 780.2 † 39

Heart disease 217.6 277.7 162.3 * 111.7 220.7 † 36

Coronary heart disease 148.4 186.1 106.4 * * 150.2 166.0 31

Total cancer 177.0 211.7 87.8 * 87.4 177.6 159.9 44

Breast cancer 26.8 36.1 * * * 27.2 22.3 38

Colorectal cancer 19.1 24.1 * * * 19.3 13.9 42

Lung cancer 46.7 54.0 * * * 46.5 44.9 44

Stroke 65.6 82.3 46.3 * * 66.5 48.0 42

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 127.1 74.3 * * * 122.7 60.0 40

Diabetes-related 68.5 122.7 75.4 * * 71.7 45.0 33

Infl uenza and pneumonia 18.6 18.1 * * * 18.5 † 15

Unintentional injuries 24.5 24.0 14.6 * * 24.4 17.5 27

Suicide 4.2 * * * * 4.0 5.0 19

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 23.9 41.5 22.8 * * 24.9 ‡ 30

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 22.2 38.4 29.7 39.4 * 23.5 15.0 40

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 28.0 38.3 42.7 39.8 * 29.3 20.0 34

Binge drinking 9.1 8.1 * * * 9.0 † 38

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 27.2 21.8 18.7 43.7 * 26.3 12.0 49

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 77.5 84.3 95.0 76.4 96.1 79.5 99.0 47

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 23.9 26.3 25.1 * 49.3 24.3 † 41

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 71.0 76.7 69.3 * 77.0 71.2 80.0 30

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 72.6 75.3 81.1 * * 72.9 70.0 38

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 81.5 86.3 80.1 60.0 75.4 81.4 90.0 43

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 25.6 25.3 43.9 * * 25.6 50.0 39

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 80.1 89.0 85.3 80.8 88.6 81.1 † 52

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 77.0 63.3 56.6 69.0 72.3 74.3 90.0 29

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 86.9 83.2 68.1 90.3 72.4 85.7 100.0 29

Indiana has one of the highest rates of death among females due to cancer in the U.S. It is one of the 

few states in which females have not yet met the Healthy People 2010 target for reducing the rate of lung 

cancer death. Indiana ranks among the states with the highest percentages of women who smoke and 

the lowest proportions of mothers who did not smoke during pregnancy. Smoking signifi cantly increases 

a woman’s chance of dying from lung cancer and other diseases and smoking during pregnancy can increase the risk 

of complications during pregnancy and low birth weight deliveries.10 Indiana ranks among states with the lowest 

percentages of women who have received recent Pap smears and routine check-ups.

IN
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

52

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black

Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 93.7% 2.2% 2.5% 0.4% 1.4% 1,490,809

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 659.5 959.3 555.6 651.7 524.7 662.6 † 5

Heart disease 185.7 289.4 140.4 * 165.8 186.4 † 20

Coronary heart disease 148.5 228.6 113.0 * 145.0 149.1 166.0 30

Total cancer 158.3 214.8 101.6 * 138.3 158.2 159.9 11

Breast cancer 24.5 38.4 * * * 24.6 22.3 15

Colorectal cancer 18.3 * * * * 18.2 13.9 27

Lung cancer 36.3 65.6 * * * 36.2 44.9 9

Stroke 57.7 69.5 69.1 * * 58.1 48.0 23

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 98.0 * * * * 97.4 60.0 14

Diabetes-related 60.5 169.9 70.4 * * 61.7 45.0 16

Infl uenza and pneumonia 22.5 * * * * 22.6 † 39

Unintentional injuries 22.4 * * * * 22.2 17.5 17

Suicide 3.0 * * * * 3.1 5.0 6

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 22.9 49.2 30.0 * * 23.3 ‡ 20

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 21.9 27.5 24.6 43.6 * 22.1 15.0 34

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 24.8 34.4 35.9 * * 25.2 20.0 17

Binge drinking 10.9 * * - * 10.5 † 46

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 21.5 33.1 29.4 * * 21.8 12.0 27

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 81.5 77.1 94.3 73.2 94.6 82.3 99.0 37

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 23.5 19.5 14.4 * * 23.3 † 45

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 68.3 75.7 62.6 53.7 68.8 68.4 80.0 44

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 75.2 94.1 79.8 * 78.8 75.3 70.0 22

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 85.1 100.0 86.5 87.3 79.7 85.2 90.0 19

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 36.5 * * - * 36.4 50.0 12

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 89.3 95.8 85.2 87.5 74.4 89.2 † 26

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 81.7 71.4 66.6 65.3 75.1 80.4 90.0 8

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 89.8 82.5 85.9 85.6 86.5 89.6 100.0 12

Iowa Profi le

Iowa has some of the lowest rates of death among females due to lung cancer and suicide in the 

U.S. The state ranks among those with the highest prevalence of binge drinking, which has been 

shown to have more adverse health effects for women than for men and is associated with organ 

damage, as well as an increased risk of motor vehicle crashes and interpersonal violence.12 It has one of the lowest 

percentages of women who have received a recent cholesterol screening, a health risk prevention strategy for reducing 

rates of coronary heart disease and stroke.15 Iowa has one of the highest proportions of mothers who receive early and 

adequate prenatal care.

IA
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

53

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 84.8% 5.9% 6.4% 1.1% 2.0% 1,359,944

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 698.8 955.6 474.4 803.7 343.6 714.4 † 24

Heart disease 185.4 249.5 96.0 268.8 99.7 189.2 † 23

Coronary heart disease 118.6 154.7 59.2 156.5 * 120.6 166.0 14

Total cancer 158.3 202.3 102.2 166.6 73.2 160.3 159.9 15

Breast cancer 24.8 34.8 * * * 25.2 22.3 17

Colorectal cancer 16.2 25.0 * * * 16.6 13.9 16

Lung cancer 38.8 39.6 24.5 * * 38.9 44.9 17

Stroke 58.7 74.2 48.4 * * 60.1 48.0 29

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 114.1 74.3 * * * 112.1 60.0 32

Diabetes-related 55.9 150.3 89.4 126.9 * 60.3 45.0 11

Infl uenza and pneumonia 18.2 12.5 * * * 18.1 † 12

Unintentional injuries 25.9 22.4 17.1 * * 25.7 17.5 32

Suicide 4.1 * * * * 4.0 5.0 19

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 21.6 31.5 22.6 * * 22.0 ‡ 11

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 20.4 42.2 27.6 22.2 * 21.3 15.0 28

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 26.0 37.4 43.4 26.9 28.7 27.8 20.0 28

Binge drinking 6.9 * 6.8 * * 6.7 † 16

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 21.2 24.3 16.8 25.8 * 21.0 12.0 23

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 85.2 87.1 96.4 80.1 97.1 86.9 99.0 26

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 24.8 20.9 21.0 * 50.8 24.8 † 39

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 71.1 73.1 61.1 79.3 73.6 70.7 80.0 38

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 73.9 86.3 68.8 * 62.8 74.1 70.0 34

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 84.4 93.1 81.5 77.6 55.0 84.2 90.0 27

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 33.3 25.3 31.2 55.5 - 32.9 50.0 20

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 91.4 94.5 89.5 88.4 93.9 91.5 † 11

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 82.8 71.6 62.5 71.9 76.9 79.4 90.0 10

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 89.4 78.4 68.2 77.4 88.6 87.6 100.0 19

Kansas Profi le

Kansas ranks in the middle ranges across many measurements of women’s health status. 

The prevalence of most health risk factors are average, however some differences are 

apparent between racial and ethnic groups. For example, the percentage of Hispanic 

women who are physically inactive is signifi cantly higher than in the state’s white population. Engaging in regular 

exercise is recommended by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ in its prevention initiative Steps to 

a HealthierUS.

2

 Kansas ranks among states with the highest percentages of pregnant women who receive early and 

adequate prenatal care. However, levels of prenatal care are lower among the state’s black, Hispanic and American 

Indian/Alaskan Native mothers than among white mothers.

KS
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

54

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 90.2% 7.6% 1.2% 0.2% 0.9% 2,066,401

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 822.1 986.0 688.7 206.6 363.2 830.1 † 48

Heart disease 246.5 298.6 180.5 * * 249.0 † 47

Coronary heart disease 160.1 196.1 119.0 * * 161.8 166.0 37

Total cancer 180.2 219.0 201.7 * 96.7 182.1 159.9 48

Breast cancer 26.3 34.2 * * * 26.8 22.3 33

Colorectal cancer 18.5 27.3 * * * 19.1 13.9 40

Lung cancer 52.5 59.3 * * * 52.7 44.9 50

Stroke 65.4 79.7 * * * 66.2 48.0 41

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 134.7 91.3 * * * 131.5 60.0 47

Diabetes-related 66.2 124.9 83.2 * * 69.3 45.0 28

Infl uenza and pneumonia 25.9 21.6 * * * 25.6 † 49

Unintentional injuries 29.4 21.2 * * * 28.7 17.5 41

Suicide 4.4 * * * * 4.1 5.0 21

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 27.0 42.3 34.0 * * 28.0 ‡ 47

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 22.7 37.1 14.5 * * 23.4 15.0 39

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 35.3 38.4 32.7 * * 35.6 20.0 48

Binge drinking 3.4 5.9 * * * 3.6 † 2

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 30.2 30.1 40.2 * * 30.2 12.0 52

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 74.3 82.1 94.2 73.9 94.6 75.6 99.0 49

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 24.3 17.0 30.0 52.8 * 23.9 † 43

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 70.4 71.1 83.8 67.1 * 70.7 80.0 38

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 74.7 89.2 63.0 90.3 63.2 75.2 70.0 24

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 82.3 92.4 86.5 * 74.2 82.9 90.0 35

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 26.9 28.9 28.3 * * 27.0 50.0 37

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 86.6 93.7 86.8 92.0 80.3 87.1 † 39

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 79.5 72.5 60.7 74.8 76.0 78.4 90.0 14

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 81.7 79.5 79.9 86.5 74.3 81.7 100.0 37

Kentucky Profi le Profi

Females in Kentucky have some of the highest rates of death in the U.S. due to heart 

disease, cancer, lung cancer, chronic lower respiratory disease and infl uenza and 

pneumonia. Kentucky ranks among states with the highest percentages of diagnosed high 

blood pressure and physical inactivity among women. It has one of the smallest proportions of women who eat 5 or 

more fruits and vegetables a day, an important measure of good nutrition. Kentucky ranks at the top on percentage of 

women who report binge drinking. The state has the highest percentages of women who smoke in the nation, a leading 

cause of cancer and other disease.11

KY
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

55

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black

Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 62.4% 33.4% 2.3% 0.6% 1.3% 2,306,073

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 787.3 1010.1 444.0 351.2 493.6 842.3 † 49

Heart disease 224.7 281.9 104.5 103.0 139.7 238.0 † 45

Coronary heart disease 153.2 198.5 76.7 95.6 110.3 163.7 166.0 38

Total cancer 174.9 209.2 97.3 * 108.6 182.1 159.9 48

Breast cancer 26.9 39.4 * * * 30.1 22.3 51

Colorectal cancer 17.1 24.9 * * * 18.9 13.9 37

Lung cancer 46.5 42.0 18.2 * * 44.7 44.9 40

Stroke 57.4 81.7 42.5 * * 63.5 48.0 35

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 108.9 57.1 * * * 95.1 60.0 12

Diabetes-related 55.4 136.2 36.5 * 61.8 75.3 45.0 40

Infl uenza and pneumonia 21.4 20.0 * * * 21.0 † 31

Unintentional injuries 28.3 25.6 23.1 * * 27.4 17.5 36

Suicide 5.4 1.4 * * * 4.1 5.0 21

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 23.1 38.5 25.2 * * 27.7 ‡ 45

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 19.7 38.7 21.2 26.8 * 25.2 15.0 50

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 33.2 47.0 33.0 39.6 42.3 37.7 20.0 51

Binge drinking 7.7 4.0 * - - 6.4 † 14

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 24.9 15.3 24.0 34.9 * 21.8 12.0 27

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 86.2 94.8 96.2 82.5 98.1 90.1 99.0 15

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 18.4 18.6 20.5 * * 18.7 † 50

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 71.6 69.2 76.6 88.9 69.5 71.2 80.0 30

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 74.9 74.4 73.2 79.1 * 74.5 70.0 30

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 83.9 89.0 81.4 80.3 * 84.8 90.0 22

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 26.4 25.3 * * - 26.4 50.0 38

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 89.4 93.2 89.0 97.3 58.8 90.4 † 18

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 83.7 70.7 75.6 73.3 79.1 78.1 90.0 15

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 79.7 61.8 67.6 66.3 90.0 73.5 100.0 51

Louisiana Profi le

Louisiana ranks among states with the highest rates of death among females due to heart 

disease and cancer, particularly breast cancer. Like many states in the South, Louisiana women 

have high rates of health risk factors that are associated with heart disease: high blood pressure, 

obesity and physical inactivity.3, 5-7 Each of these risk factors are notably prevalent among the 

state’s large population of black women. The state has one of the lowest percentages of women 

who eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables a day. Louisiana ranks in the middle ranges across many presented measures 

of preventive care. However, it is among the states with the worst records on the rate of health insurance coverage 

among non-senior women.

LA
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

56

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black

Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 97.3% 0.5% 0.7% 0.6% 0.9% 654,614

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 725.4 501.2 * 1507.7 522.3 729.8 † 28

Heart disease 187.5 * * 649.5 * 188.8 † 22

Coronary heart disease 132.3 * * 538.9 * 133.1 166.0 23

Total cancer 180.2 * * * * 180.5 159.9 46

Breast cancer 24.6 * * * * 24.5 22.3 13

Colorectal cancer 19.4 * * * * 19.4 13.9 43

Lung cancer 46.3 * * * * 46.5 44.9 44

Stroke 53.2 * * * * 53.6 48.0 13

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 131.3 * * * * 132.6 60.0 48

Diabetes-related 71.0 * * * * 71.4 45.0 31

Infl uenza and pneumonia 18.3 * * * * 18.4 † 14

Unintentional injuries 20.8 * * * * 20.9 17.5 13

Suicide 4.5 * * * * 4.6 5.0 28

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 24.8 * 42.9 32.4 * 25.3 ‡ 33

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 20.5 * * 29.0 * 20.4 15.0 23

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 25.5 * 34.0 37.7 * 25.9 20.0 21

Binge drinking 6.8 * * * - 6.8 † 18

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 22.7 * 24.3 33.9 * 22.7 12.0 33

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 82.0 86.3 88.9 59.5 94.2 82.1 99.0 39

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 33.1 * 33.8 * * 32.9 † 7

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 77.1 74.3 74.8 58.6 51.4 76.8 80.0 10

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 79.4 * * 62.4 79.0 79.2 70.0 8

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 86.4 * 79.1 82.1 * 86.1 90.0 13

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 43.1 - * * * 43.2 50.0 1

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 91.2 100.0 90.4 * 100.0 91.0 † 14

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 84.0 73.9 70.9 74.5 80.7 83.6 90.0 4

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 86.5 90.7 88.0 77.9 92.6 86.5 100.0 26

Maine Profi le

Females in Maine have among the highest rates of death due to cancer, specifi cally colorectal cancer 

and lung cancer. The state also ranks among those with the highest rates of death due to chronic lower 

respiratory disease among women age 45 and older. Maine has one of the highest percentages of women 

who eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables a day, an indicator of good nutrition. The state ranks near the top 

on all presented measures of preventive care. Maine leads the nation in the percentage of women who 

have recently taken a blood stool test, which can aid in the early detection of colorectal cancer and other diseases of 

the digestive system.17

ME
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

57

MD

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 62.2% 29.2% 4.0% 0.4% 4.3% 2,738,692

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 736.2 923.7 170.0 523.4 391.7 767.3 † 36

Heart disease 208.5 262.6 42.0 171.1 100.2 216.8 † 33

Coronary heart disease 159.6 202.9 32.4 135.4 77.6 165.8 166.0 41

Total cancer 175.2 195.9 39.4 106.4 106.2 175.7 159.9 40

Breast cancer 27.1 34.2 * * 11.3 28.0 22.3 43

Colorectal cancer 18.4 25.7 * * 15.1 19.8 13.9 49

Lung cancer 47.1 42.6 * * 17.8 44.7 44.9 40

Stroke 57.8 69.5 * * 47.2 60.2 48.0 30

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 119.2 61.2 * * * 104.8 60.0 24

Diabetes-related 73.7 157.2 15.8 * 38.9 88.9 45.0 48

Infl uenza and pneumonia 19.9 19.6 * * * 19.7 † 25

Unintentional injuries 16.1 15.4 7.1 * 11.0 15.7 17.5 6

Suicide 3.7 1.7 * * * 3.0 5.0 5

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 22.1 34.0 23.1 * 27.7 25.3 ‡ 33

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 17.3 30.7 19.8 * * 20.6 15.0 24

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 22.8 35.3 34.8 44.4 27.7 27.2 20.0 25

Binge drinking 8.7 5.5 * * * 7.1 † 19

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 20.6 17.8 14.8 * * 18.7 12.0 6

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 88.2 92.3 98.7 89.9 98.9 90.7 99.0 11

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 33.0 28.2 45.8 37.8 32.4 32.6 † 10

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 79.6 80.5 76.9 75.1 84.5 79.8 80.0 3

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 81.3 81.3 81.1 85.7 * 80.8 70.0 6

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 89.2 89.4 87.1 75.6 75.5 88.6 90.0 2

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 40.6 44.9 42.1 * * 40.9 50.0 5

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 91.6 97.2 93.1 86.7 89.8 93.1 † 4

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 79.2 67.5 67.6 72.4 76.3 74.6 90.0 27

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 91.6 86.4 76.9 89.1 88.6 89.0 100.0 13

Maryland Profi le

Maryland has some of the highest rates of death in the U.S. among females due to breast cancer and 

colorectal cancer. It is in an area along the Atlantic in the Northeast and South regions, which has been 

identifi ed by the National Cancer Institute as having notably high rates of breast cancer.20 The state has 

one of the lowest death rates among females due to unintentional injuries and suicides, a measure related 

to mental health status. Maryland ranks among the states with the best records on two measures related to the U.S. 

Department of Health and Human Services’ prevention initiative Steps to a HealthierUS: the percentage of women who : the percentage of women who 

smoke and the percentage of women who eat the recommended number of fruits and vegetables a day.2 Across most 

presented measures of preventive care, Maryland ranks among states with the best records.
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

58

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 83.5% 5.7% 6.6% 0.3% 4.0% 3,290,281

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 690.8 793.2 489.3 272.4 354.0 689.2 † 18

Heart disease 177.9 196.7 111.9 * 67.4 176.9 † 16

Coronary heart disease 115.9 120.0 72.9 * 47.1 114.9 166.0 12

Total cancer 176.7 176.4 107.5 * 102.5 173.6 159.9 37

Breast cancer 27.6 26.6 13.9 * 10.0 27.0 22.3 35

Colorectal cancer 18.2 21.7 11.6 * 13.8 18.1 13.9 26

Lung cancer 45.2 34.2 15.3 * 22.6 43.6 44.9 35

Stroke 48.7 55.2 39.0 * 39.4 48.8 48.0 7

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 109.6 51.2 60.5 * * 105.6 60.0 26

Diabetes-related 50.1 104.5 81.3 * 36.5 52.3 45.0 4

Infl uenza and pneumonia 23.5 20.2 11.5 * * 23.2 † 44

Unintentional injuries 13.7 13.9 7.6 * 9.7 13.7 17.5 1

Suicide 3.0 * * * * 2.9 5.0 4

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 20.0 32.5 25.2 31.4 * 20.8 ‡ 3

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 15.4 33.9 23.4 24.2 * 16.6 15.0 3

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 20.8 32.6 47.8 47.3 30.0 24.4 20.0 14

Binge drinking 12.1 7.4 6.5 * * 10.9 † 50

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 20.4 18.9 14.2 21.9 12.4 19.4 12.0 8

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 89.0 91.0 92.1 75.4 98.4 90.0 99.0 16

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 35.3 30.8 27.0 32.7 41.7 34.8 † 4

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 81.0 77.9 76.8 * 74.5 80.2 80.0 2

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 82.6 84.6 86.4 * 60.6 82.7 70.0 4

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 87.2 88.6 86.3 83.6 67.0 86.3 90.0 11

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 37.9 44.4 30.4 * * 37.7 50.0 10

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 93.8 98.6 95.8 82.5 92.5 94.0 † 3

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 85.0 74.6 73.9 76.4 80.4 82.6 90.0 5

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 94.3 88.2 78.5 81.3 81.8 92.0 100.0 4

Massachusetts Profi le

Massachusetts ranks among states with the lowest rates of stroke and diabetes-related death 

among females. It is one of the few states in which females have already met the Healthy 

People 2010 target for reducing the death rate due to unintentional injuries, a category that 

includes motor vehicle crash fatalities. Massachusetts has one of the best records on two measures related to the U.S. 

Department of Health and Human Services’ prevention initiative Steps to a HealthierUS: the percentage of women who : the percentage of women who 

smoke and the percentage of women who eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables a day.2 Massachusetts ranks near the 

top across presented measures of preventive care and has one of the highest rates of health insurance coverage among 

non-senior women in the U.S.

MA
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

59

MI

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 79.4% 15.0% 3.0% 0.7% 1.9% 5,065,349

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 727.2 997.6 587.9 1045.4 398.8 765.1 † 35

Heart disease 223.8 321.8 157.4 307.0 106.1 236.2 † 43

Coronary heart disease 166.5 258.1 114.9 244.2 80.7 177.4 166.0 46

Total cancer 167.0 206.6 102.8 212.2 108.1 171.6 159.9 34

Breast cancer 26.1 36.2 16.2 36.0 * 27.3 22.3 39

Colorectal cancer 16.2 25.1 * * * 17.2 13.9 19

Lung cancer 42.6 49.7 16.3 90.0 25.9 43.3 44.9 33

Stroke 57.4 73.5 45.8 64.2 45.5 59.7 48.0 28

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 110.5 68.2 59.2 189.0 * 106.4 60.0 27

Diabetes-related 66.6 119.0 106.7 174.9 45.7 73.0 45.0 36

Infl uenza and pneumonia 18.6 23.2 14.8 * * 19.4 † 22

Unintentional injuries 20.7 26.1 19.8 33.4 16.2 21.7 17.5 16

Suicide 4.0 2.2 * * * 3.7 5.0 16

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 24.0 40.2 17.7 28.4 * 25.7 ‡ 37

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 22.9 38.2 30.1 30.0 * 24.8 15.0 48

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 23.9 38.0 27.0 33.9 40.0 26.0 20.0 22

Binge drinking 10.8 6.6 * * * 10.1 † 43

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 24.1 25.9 22.3 38.4 * 24.0 12.0 41

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 82.9 85.8 92.6 64.8 97.6 84.2 99.0 33

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 27.5 21.0 26.5 32.7 29.1 27.0 † 25

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 75.3 79.2 78.9 79.4 65.8 75.8 80.0 14

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 79.0 77.1 * 70.9 82.9 78.6 70.0 11

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 85.9 86.7 82.4 84.4 82.0 85.6 90.0 17

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 34.4 34.2 41.3 * - 34.3 50.0 16

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 89.0 95.5 96.0 88.7 94.6 89.9 † 21

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 82.6 69.5 66.8 72.3 80.9 79.5 90.0 9

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 89.8 84.8 85.6 80.4 84.9 88.5 100.0 16

Michigan Profi le

Michigan has some of the highest rates of death among females due to heart disease, particularly 

coronary heart disease. Heart disease is associated with obesity, a health risk factor for which Michigan 

ranks among the worst in the nation.5, 6 The state has one of the highest percentages of women who 

report binge drinking, a health risk factor associated with organ damage, as well as an increased risk 

of motor vehicle crashes and interpersonal violence.12 Michigan ranks among states with the highest 

percentages of pregnant women who receive early and adequate prenatal care. However, the percentages 

of black and Hispanic mothers who receive this care are signifi cantly lower than the percentage of white mothers.
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

60

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 89.4% 3.7% 2.6% 1.3% 3.2% 2,483,848

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 630.5 849.6 521.5 1065.9 493.7 639.9 † 3

Heart disease 137.0 147.7 129.9 159.9 58.2 137.9 † 1

Coronary heart disease 86.3 85.0 83.4 120.8 * 86.6 166.0 3

Total cancer 158.2 204.3 103.3 188.9 129.8 159.0 159.9 14

Breast cancer 25.8 32.7 * * * 25.8 22.3 24

Colorectal cancer 16.3 23.5 * * * 16.5 13.9 15

Lung cancer 36.0 62.6 * 71.4 * 36.3 44.9 10

Stroke 52.8 75.9 * 73.1 80.4 53.7 48.0 14

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 93.7 * * 211.7 * 93.9 60.0 10

Diabetes-related 55.0 147.4 90.5 232.9 52.9 57.1 45.0 8

Infl uenza and pneumonia 15.0 * * * * 15.1 † 4

Unintentional injuries 23.7 26.1 20.6 63.8 * 24.3 17.5 26

Suicide 3.1 * * * * 3.1 5.0 6

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 21.3 33.3 23.0 * * 21.5 ‡ 7

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 19.0 32.4 23.0 29.9 * 19.4 15.0 16

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 19.7 40.4 30.4 * 26.5 20.5 20.0 3

Binge drinking 10.9 * * 23.7 * 10.6 † 47

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 19.5 25.0 19.3 53.0 * 19.6 12.0 9

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 88.2 87.2 95.9 59.5 97.6 88.6 99.0 20

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 28.3 28.8 33.3 * 33.8 28.7 † 19

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 72.1 78.4 62.5 72.4 * 71.9 80.0 27

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 75.7 75.7 63.9 70.2 68.0 75.3 70.0 22

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 84.4 89.4 85.6 81.8 74.5 84.2 90.0 27

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 33.0 * 32.5 * * 33.2 50.0 19

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 87.9 94.1 81.3 88.8 86.3 87.9 † 35

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 77.3 56.4 55.3 47.6 58.8 73.4 90.0 31

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 94.8 86.9 92.6 85.8 95.3 94.3 100.0 1

Minnesota Profi le

Females in Minnesota have among the lowest rates of death in the U.S. due to heart disease, lung 

cancer, chronic lower respiratory disease, diabetes-related, infl uenza and pneumonia and suicide. 

The state has some of the lowest percentages of women with high blood pressure and women who 

smoke, which may account in part for Minnesota’s top rankings on heart disease and lung cancer 

death rates.3,11 It is also among the states with the lowest frequencies of physical inactivity among women, which 

is an important component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ prevention initiative Steps to a 

HealthierUS.

2

 The state ranks among the worst in percentage of women who report binge drinking. Minnesota leads the 

nation in the percentage of non-senior women with health insurance coverage.

MN
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

61

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 60.3% 37.4% 1.1% 0.4% 0.8% 1,471,104

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 796.2 1002.7 139.0 794.6 435.6 855.0 † 52

Heart disease 265.0 347.4 * * * 287.0 † 52

Coronary heart disease 169.8 226.1 * * * 184.6 166.0 48

Total cancer 162.8 193.2 * * * 170.9 159.9 32

Breast cancer 25.2 37.3 * * * 28.8 22.3 48

Colorectal cancer 16.3 26.7 * * * 19.1 13.9 40

Lung cancer 45.9 35.5 * * * 42.8 44.9 31

Stroke 62.3 83.3 * * * 68.1 48.0 45

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 114.5 55.4 * * * 98.4 60.0 15

Diabetes-related 66.2 145.3 * 226.6 * 87.7 45.0 47

Infl uenza and pneumonia 26.3 22.2 * * * 25.3 † 48

Unintentional injuries 37.1 31.6 * * * 35.0 17.5 52

Suicide 5.2 * * * * 3.7 5.0 16

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 28.4 45.0 25.3 * * 33.6 ‡ 52

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 20.6 41.9 24.9 * * 27.4 15.0 52

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 32.9 43.5 45.2 52.1 * 37.3 20.0 50

Binge drinking 4.8 4.1 * * - 4.7 † 6

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 26.9 14.3 24.0 44.0 * 22.5 12.0 31

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 81.3 94.2 97.0 86.7 96.8 87.5 99.0 22

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 20.9 18.2 26.1 * * 20.5 † 49

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 71.1 67.3 67.7 69.1 58.6 69.8 80.0 40

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 68.8 63.8 72.8 * * 67.0 70.0 49

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 83.0 84.9 83.5 67.3 * 83.4 90.0 32

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 20.0 15.8 * * - 18.8 50.0 50

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 85.7 94.4 90.2 100.0 74.8 88.7 † 30

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 82.0 69.1 64.6 63.0 72.2 75.8 90.0 22

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 80.0 70.6 70.1 59.2 89.9 76.6 100.0 49

Mississippi Profi le

Mississippi has some of the highest rates of death among females in the U.S., ranking at or near the 

bottom for deaths due to heart disease, breast cancer, stroke, diabetes-related, infl uenza and pneumonia 

and unintentional injuries. Like several states in the South, Mississippi women have high rates of health 

risk factors that are associated with heart disease and stroke: high blood pressure, obesity and physical 

inactivity.3-7 These risk factors are notably high among the state’s large population of black women. 

The state ranks among those with the lowest rates of binge drinking among women. Mississippi is one of few states 

that have not yet met the Healthy People 2010 target for percentage of women age 40 and over who have had a 

recent mammogram, and it ranks near the bottom among states in the percentage of women age 18 to 64 with health

insurance coverage.

MS
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

62

Missouri Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 84.4% 11.9% 2.0% 0.6% 1.3% 2,875,034

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 760.2 972.3 713.6 440.9 359.8 778.5 † 37

Heart disease 229.2 297.5 200.2 100.7 75.4 234.5 † 42

Coronary heart disease 165.6 222.6 144.2 81.0 58.7 169.8 166.0 44

Total cancer 171.2 213.5 156.7 129.4 95.2 174.0 159.9 38

Breast cancer 26.2 35.8 27.2 * * 27.0 22.3 35

Colorectal cancer 18.0 28.0 * * * 18.8 13.9 35

Lung cancer 45.4 51.0 * * * 45.5 44.9 42

Stroke 60.8 70.2 58.8 * * 61.9 48.0 34

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 119.0 72.3 99.6 * * 114.9 60.0 36

Diabetes-related 66.0 131.4 97.5 * 51.5 71.6 45.0 32

Infl uenza and pneumonia 24.2 21.2 * * * 23.9 † 46

Unintentional injuries 28.7 24.1 29.7 * * 28.1 17.5 38

Suicide 5.0 * * * * 4.6 5.0 28

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 23.9 37.3 21.5 * * 24.9 ‡ 30

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 20.6 32.9 27.1 33.7 * 21.7 15.0 30

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 27.1 41.0 37.3 29.5 35.7 28.8 20.0 31

Binge drinking 8.8 * * * * 8.6 † 34

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 25.5 23.2 23.0 39.6 * 25.2 12.0 46

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 79.9 87.0 93.5 68.3 95.8 81.7 99.0 43

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 23.0 20.9 21.0 33.3 * 22.9 † 47

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 68.0 77.8 75.3 * 71.2 69.2 80.0 41

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 73.3 83.0 64.1 39.7 71.4 73.6 70.0 35

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 82.6 89.8 79.9 60.1 69.6 82.6 90.0 36

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 28.4 * 35.7 * 45.7 28.1 50.0 33

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 88.0 95.5 90.9 95.8 89.6 88.8 † 29

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 83.2 70.9 69.4 69.5 80.2 80.9 90.0 7

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 87.7 83.9 81.4 91.0 88.3 87.3 100.0 22

Missouri ranks among the states with the highest rates of death among females due to heart disease, 

lung cancer and infl uenza and pneumonia. The state has one of the highest percentages of women 

who smoke in the nation. Smoking signifi cantly increases a woman’s chances of dying from heart 

disease, lung cancer and other diseases.11 Missouri ranks near the bottom on an important measure of 

nutrition included in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ prevention initiative Steps to a HealthierUS: 

the percentage of women who eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables a day.2 The state has one of the highest 

percentages of mothers who receive early and adequate prenatal care, which can reduce the risk of complications 

during pregnancy and of delivering before 37 weeks gestation.18

MO
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

63

Montana Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 90.6% 0.3% 2.0% 6.7% 0.7% 452,715

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 690.7 * 597.3 1043.5 367.0 706.5 † 23

Heart disease 157.2 * * 183.7 * 159.0 † 7

Coronary heart disease 87.2 * * 103.2 * 88.5 166.0 4

Total cancer 163.6 * * 230.0 * 165.0 159.9 21

Breast cancer 24.1 * * * * 23.9 22.3 10

Colorectal cancer 15.4 * * * * 16.1 13.9 12

Lung cancer 41.9 * * 96.5 * 43.0 44.9 32

Stroke 60.4 * * 67.3 * 60.6 48.0 32

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 136.5 * * 195.4 * 137.8 60.0 49

Diabetes-related 58.2 * * 157.0 * 61.0 45.0 13

Infl uenza and pneumonia 18.7 * * 44.7 * 19.7 † 25

Unintentional injuries 29.3 * * 73.7 * 31.9 17.5 47

Suicide 5.4 * * * * 5.7 5.0 42

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 23.1 * 33.1 36.1 * 23.8 ‡ 24

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 16.2 * 20.0 36.1 * 17.3 15.0 6

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 21.4 * 21.0 38.6 * 22.2 20.0 9

Binge drinking 9.9 - * 14.3 * 10.0 † 42

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 19.9 * 25.6 44.4 * 21.5 12.0 26

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 83.6 82.9 84.3 70.6 90.8 82.1 99.0 39

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 27.5 * 35.3 24.9 47.6 27.6 † 24

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 67.5 * 64.0 62.7 62.6 67.2 80.0 50

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 71.4 * 69.9 68.5 93.3 71.2 70.0 43

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 83.4 * 88.7 83.1 98.6 83.3 90.0 33

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 30.4 - * 32.2 * 29.9 50.0 27

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 84.5 80.4 83.3 83.8 85.2 84.3 † 45

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 75.9 57.4 65.9 48.3 70.2 72.2 90.0 35

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 81.3 * 73.7 73.1 68.5 80.5 100.0 40

Females in Montana have some of the lowest rates of death in the U.S. due to heart disease and 

breast cancer. The state has some of the highest death rates among females due to chronic lower 

respiratory disease and unintentional injuries, a category that includes motor vehicle crash fatalities. Montana ranks 

near the top in having one of the lowest levels of obesity among women and one of the lowest percentages of women 

who are physically inactive. However, rates of obesity and physical inactivity are notably higher among American Indian/

Alaskan Native women in the state. The proportions of women in Montana who have had a recent cholesterol test, 

mammogram or routine check-up are among the lowest in the U.S. 

MT
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

64

Nebraska Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 88.5% 4.2% 5.0% 1.0% 1.5% 867,912

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 664.3 958.1 565.1 1437.8 316.7 678.7 † 11

Heart disease 176.7 230.4 121.2 389.8 * 179.1 † 17

Coronary heart disease 103.6 143.1 * 259.8 * 105.2 166.0 8

Total cancer 156.6 211.7 121.8 192.1 133.1 158.5 159.9 12

Breast cancer 23.5 45.8 * * * 23.8 22.3 9

Colorectal cancer 18.6 * * * * 18.5 13.9 32

Lung cancer 36.3 40.2 * * * 36.6 44.9 12

Stroke 55.2 87.6 * * * 56.1 48.0 20

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 103.8 120.3 * * * 104.4 60.0 22

Diabetes-related 60.5 147.8 95.2 456.8 * 64.1 45.0 20

Infl uenza and pneumonia 17.6 * * * * 17.8 † 11

Unintentional injuries 24.1 * * * * 24.1 17.5 25

Suicide 3.2 * * * * 3.3 5.0 10

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 21.7 34.3 13.5 * * 21.7 ‡ 8

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 19.3 22.8 25.5 41.3 * 19.7 15.0 20

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 26.0 37.2 47.0 34.1 45.4 27.6 20.0 26

Binge drinking 9.2 * * * * 8.6 † 34

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 21.5 23.1 18.7 32.2 * 20.8 12.0 20

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 83.8 84.3 95.1 68.1 95.1 85.0 99.0 31

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 23.2 16.3 19.4 * * 22.9 † 47

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 67.2 69.3 56.7 * 48.4 66.8 80.0 51

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 74.6 89.6 67.2 67.4 70.3 74.7 70.0 27

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 83.9 86.4 77.0 86.5 66.3 83.5 90.0 31

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 31.4 * * * - 31.1 50.0 24

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 89.0 92.6 82.5 87.0 93.9 88.7 † 30

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 75.7 59.6 60.9 54.3 71.2 72.8 90.0 32

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 89.0 84.3 63.8 79.9 83.5 86.9 100.0 24

Nebraska has some of the lowest rates of death among females due to coronary heart disease, 

breast cancer and suicide. It ranks near the top in having one of the lowest percentages of 

women with high blood pressure, a health risk factor associated with heart disease.3 Nebraska 

has among the lowest percentages of women who eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables a day, a measure of nutrition 

that is an important component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ prevention initiative Steps to a 

HealthierUS.

2

 The state ranks among those with the worst records on the percentage of women who have had a recent 

cholesterol screening, an important health risk prevention strategy for reducing rates of coronary heart disease and 

stroke.15 Across most other presented measures of preventive care, Nebraska ranks in the middle ranges.

NE
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

65

Nevada Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 67.0% 7.1% 18.8% 1.6% 6.1% 980,206

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 819.7 938.6 435.3 584.1 489.3 788.1 † 41

Heart disease 216.8 271.3 116.3 137.3 131.8 210.7 † 31

Coronary heart disease 141.1 169.6 72.9 103.2 87.3 136.9 166.0 26

Total cancer 192.3 204.4 80.4 102.5 108.1 180.7 159.9 47

Breast cancer 27.9 34.7 15.2 * * 26.6 22.3 32

Colorectal cancer 19.8 22.1 * * * 19.0 13.9 38

Lung cancer 60.3 56.0 * * 24.4 54.4 44.9 52

Stroke 57.5 90.8 38.2 * 45.9 58.0 48.0 22

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 187.4 81.9 64.9 * * 170.4 60.0 52

Diabetes-related 40.4 84.6 43.8 81.1 41.9 42.7 45.0 3

Infl uenza and pneumonia 19.9 23.8 12.8 * * 19.3 † 20

Unintentional injuries 28.0 25.6 16.0 * 14.7 25.1 17.5 31

Suicide 9.0 * * * * 7.7 5.0 51

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 24.5 46.8 22.9 31.9 37.1 26.9 ‡ 41

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 15.9 28.5 28.3 24.6 * 17.2 15.0 5

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 22.8 38.6 40.2 25.9 42.6 26.8 20.0 24

Binge drinking 10.7 13.0 11.0 * * 10.7 † 49

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 27.9 27.3 13.7 29.9 22.1 26.2 12.0 46

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 83.3 87.4 96.9 84.5 94.0 88.8 99.0 19

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 25.6 28.0 22.6 * 38.1 26.1 † 30

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 71.7 73.8 81.3 67.8 63.3 72.8 80.0 23

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 72.4 78.7 71.2 * * 72.0 70.0 41

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 82.4 91.5 75.3 64.7 73.9 80.3 90.0 48

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 26.0 * 29.7 * * 24.4 50.0 41

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 82.5 84.1 84.0 81.6 82.2 82.9 † 47

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 76.1 62.2 55.0 56.1 72.3 67.7 90.0 46

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 83.6 76.9 60.6 69.3 85.4 79.5 100.0 44

Death rates among females due to lung cancer and chronic lower respiratory disease (among women 45 and 

older) are higher in Nevada than in any other state. These causes of death are associated with smoking, a 

health risk factor for which Nevada women rank among the worst in the nation.11 The state has one of the 

lowest rates of diabetes-related death, and is one of only three states in which women have met the Healthy 

People 2010 target for this measure. The state is among those with the lowest rates of obesity among women in the 

U.S. Nevada ranks near the bottom across most presented measures of preventive care for women, and has one of the 

lowest percentages of women age 18 to 64 who have health insurance coverage.

NV
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

66

New Hampshire Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 96.0% 0.7% 1.6% 0.3% 1.4% 628,099

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 678.1 641.6 335.2 * 392.9 690.6 † 19

Heart disease 188.0 * * * * 191.5 † 24

Coronary heart disease 151.1 * * * * 153.9 166.0 32

Total cancer 168.4 * * * * 170.5 159.9 30

Breast cancer 26.5 * * * * 26.8 22.3 33

Colorectal cancer 17.6 * * * * 18.2 13.9 27

Lung cancer 44.0 * * * * 44.0 44.9 38

Stroke 54.6 * * * * 55.5 48.0 15

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 121.2 * * * * 124.0 60.0 44

Diabetes-related 68.5 * * * * 68.4 45.0 27

Infl uenza and pneumonia 14.2 * * * * 14.8 † 3

Unintentional injuries 17.6 * * * * 17.9 17.5 9

Suicide 4.4 * * * * 4.6 5.0 28

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 22.0 * * * * 21.9 ‡ 10

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 17.5 * * * * 17.4 15.0 8

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 23.0 * 32.1 25.7 41.7 23.4 20.0 13

Binge drinking 10.4 - * * - 10.2 † 44

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 23.4 * * 48.3 * 23.3 12.0 38

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 84.2 84.7 91.5 71.3 97.2 84.7 99.0 32

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 33.0 55.8 34.5 * * 33.2 † 5

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 77.9 * 63.9 65.7 56.5 77.3 80.0 9

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 80.2 79.5 81.1 * * 80.2 70.0 7

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 87.1 87.6 80.6 66.3 * 86.7 90.0 7

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 41.6 * * * - 40.9 50.0 5

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 90.9 * 83.5 * 91.7 90.7 † 16

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 86.5 75.9 79.5 78.3 83.1 86.1 90.0 2

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 89.0 100.0 79.4 59.9 89.4 88.6 100.0 15

New Hampshire has some of the highest death rates among women 45 and older due to chronic lower 

respiratory disease. It ranks among states with the lowest rates of death among females from infl uenza and 

pneumonia and unintentional injuries, a category that includes motor vehicle crashes. The state ranks among 

those with the lowest frequencies of women with diagnosed high blood pressure and obesity. New Hampshire 

has one of the highest percentages of women who eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables a day, an indicator of good 

nutrition. It has one of the highest percentages of women who report binge drinking. The state ranks near the top 

across most presented measures of preventive care, and has one of the highest percentages in the nation of pregnant 

women who receive early and adequate prenatal care.

NH
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

67

New Jersey Profi le Profi

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 67.3% 13.9% 12.7% 0.3% 6.0% 4,331,537

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 708.2 945.5 482.3 256.8 334.6 718.5 † 27

Heart disease 218.9 258.2 144.3 * 101.7 219.0 † 35

Coronary heart disease 167.8 198.3 109.7 * 81.0 167.6 166.0 43

Total cancer 185.2 201.8 94.9 82.6 81.7 178.8 159.9 45

Breast cancer 30.5 35.4 15.4 * 12.0 29.6 22.3 50

Colorectal cancer 19.8 22.8 13.1 * 7.1 19.6 13.9 46

Lung cancer 44.2 41.5 10.9 * 11.4 40.8 44.9 27

Stroke 42.3 65.1 31.2 * 33.0 44.3 48.0 2

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 89.4 75.0 41.3 * 21.7 84.5 60.0 5

Diabetes-related 49.8 115.1 61.4 * 35.8 56.6 45.0 7

Infl uenza and pneumonia 20.0 19.7 13.3 * 11.4 19.8 † 27

Unintentional injuries 16.4 19.6 11.0 * 6.4 16.2 17.5 7

Suicide 3.2 1.7 1.4 * * 2.8 5.0 3

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 21.6 36.0 21.3 * * 23.3 ‡ 20

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 16.5 35.0 23.4 * * 19.2 15.0 14

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 24.4 36.8 38.2 49.1 31.8 28.9 20.0 32

Binge drinking 9.8 3.9 5.7 * * 7.7 † 24

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 21.7 21.0 13.0 * * 19.6 12.0 9

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 88.7 86.7 94.3 82.1 98.7 90.3 99.0 14

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 30.9 23.1 27.3 * 32.8 29.8 † 16

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 79.4 73.3 73.8 72.0 75.5 77.6 80.0 7

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 76.5 76.1 79.0 85.7 70.6 76.4 70.0 15

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 85.3 86.9 80.3 84.0 68.4 83.1 90.0 34

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 35.2 32.2 24.2 * * 33.3 50.0 18

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 90.6 95.6 90.4 89.9 93.5 91.1 † 13

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 72.0 51.6 58.7 59.2 69.0 65.9 90.0 48

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 91.8 81.8 67.5 87.3 88.6 86.2 100.0 28

New Jersey has one of the lowest death rates due to stroke among females in the U.S., and is one of few 

states in which women have already met the Healthy People 2010 target for this measure. The state ranks 

among those with the highest rates of death due to cancer. It is in an area along the Atlantic in the Northeast 

and South regions, which has been identifi ed by the National Cancer Institute as having notably high rates 

of breast cancer.20 New Jersey has one of the lowest smoking rates among women. The state has one of the lowest 

percentages of mothers who receive early and adequate prenatal care. Levels of prenatal care are particularly low 

among the state’s black, Hispanic and American Indian/Alaskan Native populations.

NJ
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

68

New Mexico Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 45.9% 1.7% 41.8% 10.3% 1.5% 924,729

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 683.3 825.6 657.5 707.2 452.6 683.3 † 14

Heart disease 174.3 241.6 156.3 107.1 * 167.3 † 11

Coronary heart disease 127.5 181.9 111.7 65.7 * 121.1 166.0 15

Total cancer 151.9 176.0 133.5 111.5 112.8 144.2 159.9 4

Breast cancer 24.6 * 20.4 14.1 * 22.8 22.3 4

Colorectal cancer 15.1 * 16.1 * * 15.0 13.9 6

Lung cancer 36.3 * 18.2 * * 29.0 44.9 4

Stroke 51.6 68.4 52.7 49.3 * 52.4 48.0 11

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 141.2 * 67.0 37.2 * 114.2 60.0 34

Diabetes-related 39.1 154.5 93.8 131.8 * 61.2 45.0 14

Infl uenza and pneumonia 19.1 * 17.6 34.4 * 19.2 † 18

Unintentional injuries 29.7 * 31.6 61.7 * 33.9 17.5 51

Suicide 10.3 * 3.8 * * 7.3 5.0 49

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 18.9 39.0 21.8 26.2 * 20.5 ‡ 2

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 15.2 32.6 24.1 32.4 * 19.5 15.0 18

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 20.9 29.0 33.7 27.7 24.1 26.6 20.0 23

Binge drinking 6.9 * 6.7 6.0 * 6.5 † 15

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 23.2 19.8 19.1 13.9 * 20.2 12.0 14

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 83.9 83.1 91.7 96.4 95.7 89.6 99.0 17

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 27.6 32.1 21.0 25.8 39.7 25.0 † 36

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 68.9 75.2 66.5 67.1 * 67.9 80.0 48

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 71.7 * 67.8 66.0 * 69.9 70.0 45

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 82.0 93.7 81.6 82.4 81.9 82.1 90.0 38

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 26.7 35.3 17.7 * - 23.6 50.0 43

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 85.3 94.7 83.1 89.0 77.1 84.7 † 44

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 64.2 58.4 55.8 46.7 64.7 57.6 90.0 52

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 83.4 87.1 66.1 64.3 91.6 74.7 100.0 50

New Mexico ranks among states with the lowest rates of death among females due to cancer. It has 

some of the highest death rates due to suicide and unintentional injuries, for which the rate of death 

is notably higher among New Mexico’s American Indian/Alaskan Native (AI/AN) population. Nationally, 

unintentional injuries, including injuries sustained in motor vehicle crashes, are the third leading cause 

of death among AI/AN females, whereas they are the seventh leading cause among white females.22 New Mexico has 

one of the lowest frequencies of high blood pressure among women in the U.S. The state has some of the lowest 

percentages of women who receive preventive care across all presented measures, and the worst record of all states 

on the percentage of mothers who receive early and adequate prenatal care. New Mexico ranks among states with the 

lowest levels of health insurance coverage among women age 18 to 64.

NM
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

69

New York Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 62.8% 16.2% 14.8% 0.6% 5.9% 9,829,709

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 681.9 809.2 523.1 251.5 356.1 690.9 † 20

Heart disease 245.3 287.0 194.0 78.4 131.7 249.0 † 47

Coronary heart disease 201.3 247.7 171.7 67.0 118.6 206.9 166.0 51

Total cancer 172.6 181.3 104.6 51.1 86.3 166.5 159.9 24

Breast cancer 28.6 33.5 17.7 * 9.1 27.9 22.3 42

Colorectal cancer 18.6 22.6 12.4 * 10.2 18.6 13.9 33

Lung cancer 42.8 32.9 13.4 * 17.1 38.3 44.9 13

Stroke 38.7 40.2 25.8 19.4 25.8 38.8 48.0 1

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 96.6 51.7 41.9 * 23.9 86.5 60.0 7

Diabetes-related 50.7 103.8 70.1 57.0 29.9 58.1 45.0 10

Infl uenza and pneumonia 21.6 26.9 26.5 * 16.2 22.7 † 40

Unintentional injuries 15.4 14.5 12.5 * 8.0 15.0 17.5 4

Suicide 2.5 1.5 1.5 * 3.1 2.3 5.0 2

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 20.8 33.3 26.7 * * 23.2 ‡ 19

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 17.0 37.5 23.9 28.5 10.4 20.7 15.0 27

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 25.3 35.2 40.9 43.7 36.9 30.3 20.0 38

Binge drinking 10.6 3.2 5.8 * * 8.5 † 33

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 23.7 18.0 18.1 38.5 * 20.9 12.0 22

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 87.6 91.7 96.4 73.1 99.2 91.0 99.0 10

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 32.0 28.8 31.9 20.1 49.0 32.3 † 11

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 77.1 72.7 69.9 63.7 76.0 75.5 80.0 15

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 79.1 81.6 80.2 70.1 * 79.2 70.0 8

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 85.0 85.6 88.5 75.3 75.5 84.5 90.0 23

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 34.2 25.4 19.5 * * 31.3 50.0 23

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 91.5 97.2 91.5 89.6 94.7 92.4 † 5

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 70.2 55.5 58.6 64.4 59.7 64.4 90.0 49

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 90.0 83.6 73.4 70.3 79.8 85.0 100.0 30

New York leads the nation in having the lowest death rate among females due to stroke and it 

is one of few states in which females have already met the Healthy People 2010 target for this 

measure. However, females in New York have some of the highest rates of death due to heart 

disease. The state ranks among those with the highest percentages of women who abstain from 

smoking during pregnancy. It has one of the worst records on percentage of women who receive early and adequate 

prenatal care, which can help prevent pregnancy complications and premature delivery.18 The percentages of women 

receiving early and adequate prenatal care are particularly low among the state’s black, Hispanic and Asian/Pacifi c 

Islander populations. New York ranks among states with the highest percentage of women who have had a recent

routine check-up.

NY
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

70

North Carolina NC Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 70.9% 22.6% 3.7% 1.3% 1.6% 4,106,618

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 744.5 951.9 218.2 806.0 353.3 779.8 † 38

Heart disease 197.8 257.8 53.1 233.5 61.6 207.7 † 29

Coronary heart disease 141.2 181.2 37.8 178.4 41.7 147.7 166.0 29

Total cancer 162.0 186.9 37.2 139.8 91.1 165.1 159.9 23

Breast cancer 23.7 34.6 * 26.3 * 25.6 22.3 22

Colorectal cancer 15.9 24.7 * * * 17.3 13.9 20

Lung cancer 43.1 31.8 * 28.1 30.1 40.6 44.9 26

Stroke 69.9 91.5 22.2 75.5 31.0 73.6 48.0 49

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 120.5 48.8 * * * 106.7 60.0 28

Diabetes-related 69.2 167.7 35.9 141.2 40.4 86.5 45.0 46

Infl uenza and pneumonia 23.4 20.7 * 22.2 * 22.8 † 41

Unintentional injuries 27.4 25.1 15.5 49.1 17.3 27.2 17.5 35

Suicide 6.0 1.8 * * * 4.9 5.0 38

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 22.1 39.8 23.8 * * 25.6 ‡ 35

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 18.9 41.3 22.1 28.6 * 23.3 15.0 38

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 27.9 42.8 47.9 40.1 42.2 32.0 20.0 44

Binge drinking 5.8 2.4 * * * 5.2 † 10

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 26.0 17.2 21.3 22.5 * 23.6 12.0 39

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 82.4 88.9 98.5 74.6 97.7 85.9 99.0 29

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 27.7 20.5 18.0 * 20.1 25.7 † 33

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 78.2 72.4 70.0 * 57.6 76.2 80.0 13

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 79.0 79.9 76.7 80.4 * 78.8 70.0 10

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 86.7 91.1 86.9 91.3 82.8 87.5 90.0 4

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 44.5 37.0 31.1 * 46.5 42.9 50.0 3

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 90.7 95.8 91.3 86.6 100.0 91.9 † 7

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 87.2 75.7 64.6 72.8 81.2 81.7 90.0 6

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 86.4 80.0 61.5 75.5 90.9 83.9 100.0 32

North Carolina has been identifi ed as part of the “stroke belt” region in the South, and 

females in the state have one of the highest rates of death due to stroke in the U.S.21 The rate of 

diabetes-related death for females in North Carolina is also among the highest in the U.S. North Carolina has one of 

the highest levels of physical inactivity among women. Regular exercise may reduce the risk of stoke and diabetes and 

is one component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ prevention initiative Steps to a HealthierUS.

2, 

7, 8 The state ranks among those with the lowest rates of binge drinking among women. North Carolina has one of the 

best records across presented measures of preventive care.
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

71

North Dakota Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 92.5% 0.6% 1.1% 5.2% 0.7% 321,676

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 599.6 * * 1168.7 * 630.7 † 2

Heart disease 156.6 * * 324.6 * 164.3 † 9

Coronary heart disease 113.8 * * 264.3 * 119.8 166.0 13

Total cancer 149.0 * * 244.3 * 153.8 159.9 8

Breast cancer 24.6 * * * * 25.4 22.3 20

Colorectal cancer 16.8 * * * * 17.3 13.9 20

Lung cancer 30.0 * * * * 31.6 44.9 5

Stroke 53.6 * * * * 55.7 48.0 17

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 71.4 * * * * 75.8 60.0 3

Diabetes-related 57.3 * * 241.0 * 60.4 45.0 12

Infl uenza and pneumonia 16.3 * * * * 17.2 † 9

Unintentional injuries 20.7 * * 49.9 * 23.3 17.5 22

Suicide 4.2 * * * * 4.7 5.0 33

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 23.6 * * 29.0 * 23.8 ‡ 24

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 19.6 * 33.9 43.9 * 20.6 15.0 24

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 21.9 * 30.1 31.8 * 22.6 20.0 10

Binge drinking 11.3 - * * * 11.1 † 51

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 19.9 * 21.2 45.1 * 21.0 12.0 23

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 84.1 91.4 88.2 60.8 96.7 82.0 99.0 41

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 28.3 * * 20.4 * 27.8 † 22

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 68.6 * 70.4 67.6 54.3 68.6 80.0 43

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 75.1 74.2 85.7 * * 74.7 70.0 27

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 82.6 * 75.0 82.1 * 82.1 90.0 38

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 28.2 * * * - 28.1 50.0 33

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 89.0 82.9 85.0 93.4 89.4 89.0 † 27

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 70.2 69.5 61.6 46.3 70.5 67.7 90.0 46

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 89.6 69.4 76.4 63.8 80.1 88.0 100.0 18

North Dakota has some of the lowest rates of death among females due to heart disease, lung 

cancer, chronic lower respiratory disease and infl uenza and pneumonia. It also ranks among 

those with the lowest rates of physical inactivity among women. North Dakota ranks among states with the highest 

percentages of women who report binge drinking, a health risk factor associated with organ damage, as well as an 

increased risk of motor vehicle crashes and interpersonal violence.12 It has one of the lowest percentages of women 

who have received a recent cholesterol screening, a health risk prevention strategy for reducing rates of heart disease.15

North Dakota has one of the lowest proportions of pregnant women who receive early and adequate prenatal care, 

particularly among American Indian/Alaskan Native mothers.

ND
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

72

Ohio Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 84.6% 12.1% 1.8% 0.3% 1.3% 5,840,878

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 765.5 962.3 436.7 285.4 371.8 783.9 † 40

Heart disease 223.9 278.6 141.6 84.7 100.0 229.3 † 40

Coronary heart disease 162.1 206.2 100.2 * 69.4 166.3 166.0 42

Total cancer 174.9 211.6 84.1 * 87.3 177.3 159.9 43

Breast cancer 28.4 37.9 13.3 * * 29.1 22.3 49

Colorectal cancer 19.1 25.7 * * * 19.6 13.9 46

Lung cancer 43.5 51.1 * * 33.3 43.9 44.9 36

Stroke 57.5 72.0 40.9 * 38.4 59.1 48.0 25

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 123.6 81.8 * * * 119.6 60.0 37

Diabetes-related 83.6 154.7 80.3 * 47.3 89.5 45.0 49

Infl uenza and pneumonia 19.3 15.4 * * * 19.0 † 16

Unintentional injuries 21.2 20.4 11.6 * * 21.0 17.5 14

Suicide 3.6 2.4 * * * 3.4 5.0 11

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 24.6 36.1 26.3 * * 25.6 ‡ 35

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 21.8 28.6 26.2 * * 22.3 15.0 36

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 28.5 38.0 36.6 38.2 * 29.7 20.0 36

Binge drinking 9.2 4.2 * * * 8.8 † 37

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 27.7 19.2 21.6 35.6 * 26.6 12.0 50

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 79.8 84.7 88.8 69.5 97.6 81.0 99.0 46

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 26.7 23.3 30.5 36.9 43.7 26.7 † 27

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 69.0 72.2 69.2 * 66.6 69.2 80.0 41

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 75.3 80.8 78.3 91.6 83.3 75.9 70.0 18

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 84.4 86.0 88.2 94.8 72.3 84.5 90.0 23

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 33.7 33.6 * * - 33.5 50.0 17

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 87.3 93.4 95.6 88.5 97.0 88.1 † 33

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 80.5 66.3 66.0 72.3 76.3 78.0 90.0 16

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 88.4 82.7 91.3 79.2 87.1 87.6 100.0 19

Females in Ohio have some of the highest rates of death due to cancer in the U.S., specifi cally breast 

and colorectal cancers. The state also has one of the highest rates of diabetes-related death among 

females. Ohio ranks among the states with the largest percentages of women who smoke, a leading 

cause of cancer and other diseases.11 Reducing the number of women who smoke is one of the goals 

of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ prevention initiative Steps to a HealthierUS.

2

 The percentage of 

women in Ohio who do not smoke during pregnancy is also lower than in most states. Smoking during pregnancy can 

increase the risks of complications during pregnancy and low birth weight.10 Ohio ranks in the middle ranges across 

most presented measures of preventive care.

OH
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

73

Oklahoma Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 77.1% 7.9% 4.7% 9.1% 1.6% 1,754,759

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 822.6 1030.6 638.9 687.9 434.2 823.5 † 46

Heart disease 256.0 327.7 192.8 169.0 103.2 254.7 † 49

Coronary heart disease 186.9 239.3 143.8 125.0 72.0 185.9 166.0 50

Total cancer 171.4 208.2 105.6 129.0 116.6 169.6 159.9 29

Breast cancer 26.1 42.3 * 15.5 * 26.3 22.3 30

Colorectal cancer 17.6 27.1 * 15.9 * 17.9 13.9 23

Lung cancer 47.0 45.0 * 32.2 * 45.5 44.9 42

Stroke 68.1 85.4 55.4 46.9 * 68.2 48.0 46

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 130.5 73.4 * 67.5 * 123.3 60.0 41

Diabetes-related 66.7 145.4 100.9 130.6 59.9 74.1 45.0 39

Infl uenza and pneumonia 23.3 23.5 * 19.8 * 23.0 † 43

Unintentional injuries 31.4 28.0 24.6 36.6 * 31.0 17.5 46

Suicide 6.4 * * * * 5.7 5.0 42

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 23.2 35.8 29.1 35.4 * 24.5 ‡ 29

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 20.6 30.9 26.1 27.0 * 21.8 15.0 31

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 32.3 41.1 42.5 34.6 32.7 34.0 20.0 47

Binge drinking 4.7 * * 9.2 * 4.8 † 7

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 26.3 21.1 14.4 30.8 16.2 25.2 12.0 46

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 80.5 86.1 94.6 78.6 95.5 82.3 99.0 37

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 18.2 16.7 23.0 21.1 45.2 18.6 † 51

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 71.5 74.1 68.0 68.1 61.2 71.0 80.0 34

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 67.4 68.2 62.2 72.3 61.1 67.6 70.0 48

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 81.2 87.2 79.3 82.3 66.4 80.9 90.0 45

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 23.8 23.0 * 13.3 * 22.8 50.0 45

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 87.9 90.8 86.2 91.6 87.7 88.2 † 32

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 72.7 61.6 56.1 58.6 69.5 68.9 90.0 42

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 80.9 75.8 52.4 66.8 74.1 77.6 100.0 47

Oklahoma ranks among the states with the highest rates of death among women due to heart 

disease, stroke, infl uenza and pneumonia and unintentional injuries. Oklahoma ranks among 

the states with the worst records on three measures related to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ 

prevention initiative Steps to a HealthierUS Steps to a HealthierUS, with a high percentage of women who are physically inactive, a low , with a high percentage of women who are physically inactive, a low 

percentage of women who eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables a day, and a high percentage of women who smoke.2 

Overall, Oklahoma has one of the lowest rates of binge drinking among women. Across most presented measures of 

preventive care, Ohio ranks near the bottom and it has one of the lowest levels of health insurance coverage among 

non-senior women.

OK
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

74

Oregon Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 86.0% 1.8% 7.1% 1.7% 3.7% 1,724,849

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 723.4 838.8 434.4 787.7 484.4 716.7 † 26

Heart disease 159.1 187.4 77.2 151.2 89.6 157.5 † 4

Coronary heart disease 102.5 118.1 57.0 113.4 66.1 101.7 166.0 6

Total cancer 173.5 167.1 79.5 175.6 123.8 170.8 159.9 31

Breast cancer 26.6 * * * 21.1 26.0 22.3 25

Colorectal cancer 15.8 * * * * 15.8 13.9 10

Lung cancer 48.2 37.8 * 60.3 21.2 46.9 44.9 48

Stroke 73.1 115.4 47.6 57.0 63.3 73.0 48.0 48

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 126.9 * * 175.9 * 123.6 60.0 42

Diabetes-related 68.1 184.1 74.5 111.5 68.8 69.6 45.0 29

Infl uenza and pneumonia 16.2 * * * * 16.1 † 7

Unintentional injuries 24.1 * 19.0 33.3 19.0 23.7 17.5 24

Suicide 5.8 * * * * 5.6 5.0 41

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 22.8 * 25.4 * * 22.7 ‡ 18

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 21.5 * 25.8 27.6 * 21.9 15.0 32

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 18.9 * 38.6 22.2 18.8 20.6 20.0 4

Binge drinking 8.4 * * * * 8.1 † 29

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 20.8 32.4 9.7 44.3 * 20.3 12.0 16

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 84.0 81.9 96.5 74.5 96.1 86.4 99.0 28

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 30.7 29.3 24.8 38.8 42.5 31.1 † 12

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 72.4 76.0 53.7 74.6 80.3 71.1 80.0 32

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 73.2 75.4 72.8 * 73.3 72.7 70.0 39

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 81.7 90.6 83.5 81.4 74.3 81.3 90.0 44

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 40.1 * * * * 39.7 50.0 7

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 85.8 97.0 84.5 85.1 93.2 85.8 † 43

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 77.7 72.2 62.8 65.1 73.5 74.7 90.0 25

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 86.3 81.2 58.2 77.0 75.3 83.2 100.0 34

Females in Oregon have some of the lowest rates of death due to heart disease, colorectal cancer 

and infl uenza and pneumonia. The state ranks among those with the highest rates of stroke death 

among females, and it is one of the few states in which females have not yet met the Healthy 

People 2010 target for lung cancer death. Oregon ranks among states with the best records in 

having a low rate of physical inactivity among women. Oregon has some of the lowest percentages of women who have 

had a recent Pap smear or a routine check-up. It ranks near the top in having a high proportion of women age 50 and 

over who have recently taken a blood stool test, which is used to diagnosis colorectal cancer and other diseases of the 

digestive system.

OR
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

75

Pennsylvania Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black

Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 84.6% 10.3% 3.0% 0.2% 1.9% 6,351,391

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 726.5 974.4 579.9 289.4 395.4 745.5 † 31

Heart disease 219.3 261.7 158.6 90.5 96.7 222.1 † 37

Coronary heart disease 153.9 185.4 110.4 * 73.8 155.9 166.0 33

Total cancer 172.5 220.9 112.4 * 96.9 175.1 159.9 39

Breast cancer 27.7 38.5 19.3 * 13.9 28.5 22.3 45

Colorectal cancer 19.3 25.8 12.8 * 11.7 19.7 13.9 48

Lung cancer 39.5 54.2 20.5 * 10.0 40.2 44.9 23

Stroke 54.2 75.1 48.8 * 36.8 55.8 48.0 18

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 95.2 79.7 67.7 * * 93.8 60.0 9

Diabetes-related 72.8 107.5 88.0 * 34.7 75.4 45.0 41

Infl uenza and pneumonia 16.5 18.0 9.8 * * 16.6 † 8

Unintentional injuries 21.4 22.6 17.8 * 16.4 21.5 17.5 15

Suicide 3.9 1.8 * * * 3.6 5.0 14

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 22.5 35.2 21.1 * * 23.6 ‡ 23

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 20.2 42.1 20.8 * * 22.1 15.0 34

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 23.8 37.3 32.6 * 37.4 25.5 20.0 19

Binge drinking 8.3 4.9 * - * 7.8 † 26

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 24.0 29.5 26.4 * * 24.4 12.0 43

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 82.3 83.1 87.3 85.6 97.7 83.1 99.0 35

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 28.9 27.3 27.8 41.0 35.3 29.0 † 17

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 70.5 77.8 65.1 67.6 53.9 70.8 80.0 36

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 76.4 77.2 78.7 87.6 86.2 76.5 70.0 13

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 84.4 87.1 84.9 88.0 79.9 84.4 90.0 26

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 30.1 33.5 * * - 30.1 50.0 25

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 89.7 95.3 92.4 92.3 94.3 90.4 † 18

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 72.8 59.6 60.8 67.4 63.3 70.3 90.0 39

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 91.2 83.0 80.7 65.0 93.7 89.9 100.0 10

Pennsylvania has some of the highest rates of death among females due to breast and 

colorectal cancers. The state is in an area along the Atlantic in the Northeast and South 

regions, which has been identifi ed by the National Cancer Institute as having notably high 

rates of breast cancer.20 The state ranks among those with the largest proportions of women 

who smoke, which signifi cantly increases a woman’s risk of dying from cancer and other diseases.11 Pennsylvania ranks 

among states with the lowest rates of death due to infl uenza and pneumonia and chronic lower respiratory disease 

(among women 45 and older). It has one of the highest rates of health insurance coverage among women age 18 to 64 

in the U.S.

PA
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

76

Puerto Rico Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) --- --- --- --- --- 1,979,094

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause --- --- --- --- --- 672.0 † 8

Heart disease --- --- --- --- --- 158.6 † 6

Coronary heart disease --- --- --- --- --- 112.6 166.0 11

Total cancer --- --- --- --- --- 103.3 159.9 1

Breast cancer --- --- --- --- --- 18.2 22.3 1

Colorectal cancer --- --- --- --- --- 12.7 13.9 2

Lung cancer --- --- --- --- --- 9.7 44.9 1

Stroke --- --- --- --- --- 48.0 48.0 6

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) --- --- --- --- --- 93.0 60.0 8

Diabetes-related --- --- --- --- --- 107.6 45.0 51

Infl uenza and pneumonia --- --- --- --- --- 28.6 † 52

Unintentional injuries --- --- --- --- --- 14.3 17.5 2

Suicide --- --- --- --- --- 1.6 5.0 1

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure * * 28.9 * * 28.9 ‡ 50

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 31.9 * 22.9 * - 22.9 15.0 37

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 38.3 88.6 55.1 * * 55.1 20.0 52

Binge drinking * - 3.9 * - 3.9 † 3

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 22.4 * 8.7 - * 8.8 12.0 1

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) --- --- --- --- --- 99.1 99.0 1

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) * - 11.7 * * 11.7 † 52

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 84.7 * 78.8 * * 78.7 80.0 5

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 75.9 * 70.4 * * 70.3 70.0 44

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 78.2 93.5 75.3 * * 75.4 90.0 52

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) * * 5.5 - - 5.5 50.0 52

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 87.1 85.0 91.7 96.9 * 91.7 † 9

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) --- --- --- --- --- 71.5 90.0 37

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 96.4 86.8 93.5 * * 93.5 100.0 2

The status of women’s health in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the largest of the U.S. 

territories, varies signifi cantly across presented health measures. Puerto Rico has the lowest 

rates of death among females due to all cancers, and they have already met the Healthy People 2010 targets for breast, 

colorectal and lung cancers. Females in Puerto Rico have some of the highest rates of diabetes-related and infl uenza 

and pneumonia death. It has one of the worst records on two measures related to the U.S. Department of Health and 

Human Services’ prevention initiative Steps to a HealthierUS Steps to a HealthierUS, with a high percentage of women who are physically , with a high percentage of women who are physically 

inactive and a low percentage of women who eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables a day.1 However, Puerto Rico leads 

the nation in having the smallest percentages of women who smoke. Puerto Rico has one of the highest levels of health 

insurance coverage among non-senior women. 

PR
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

77

Rhode Island Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 83.9% 4.7% 8.5% 0.6% 2.6% 544,684

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 684.6 911.0 359.2 603.3 386.1 687.8 † 16

Heart disease 199.3 248.0 80.5 * * 199.1 † 26

Coronary heart disease 171.8 208.5 62.7 * * 171.3 166.0 45

Total cancer 179.5 167.7 98.0 * 108.4 176.4 159.9 41

Breast cancer 27.0 * * * * 26.1 22.3 26

Colorectal cancer 20.2 * * * * 20.1 13.9 50

Lung cancer 45.5 * * * * 43.9 44.9 36

Stroke 44.2 71.0 * * * 44.7 48.0 3

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 105.3 * * * * 103.0 60.0 20

Diabetes-related 70.6 165.8 64.5 * * 72.8 45.0 35

Infl uenza and pneumonia 21.4 * * * * 21.5 † 34

Unintentional injuries 14.3 * * * * 14.5 17.5 3

Suicide 3.7 * * * * 3.4 5.0 11

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 21.8 37.0 21.7 27.9 * 22.4 ‡ 13

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 15.6 41.4 22.4 20.4 * 17.3 15.0 6

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 24.6 35.4 52.1 38.8 21.9 28.3 20.0 30

Binge drinking 10.7 9.1 4.9 * * 9.7 † 39

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 24.1 21.5 13.3 50.2 19.0 23.0 12.0 36

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 83.9 85.4 94.0 64.5 95.7 85.9 99.0 29

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 33.8 23.2 23.9 37.4 30.5 32.7 † 9

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 81.5 73.2 71.5 87.1 73.8 79.8 80.0 3

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 84.2 80.0 80.7 * 90.9 83.7 70.0 2

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 87.4 83.9 86.6 80.9 75.6 86.5 90.0 8

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 32.9 38.4 32.6 * - 32.7 50.0 21

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 94.2 95.8 93.5 100.0 91.5 94.1 † 2

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 87.5 79.5 79.4 74.6 79.9 85.1 90.0 3

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 92.5 88.2 77.4 92.7 89.7 90.5 100.0 6

Rhode Island has some of the highest rates of death among females due to coronary heart disease and 

colorectal cancer in the U.S. It ranks among states with the lowest rates of death due to unintentional 

injuries, and is one of few states in which females have already met the Healthy People 2010 target for 

stroke death. Rhode Island ranks among states with the lowest levels of obesity among women. The 

percentage of women in Rhode Island who eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables a day is one of the highest in the U.S., 

an indicator of good nutrition. The state has one of the best records on health insurance coverage among non-senior 

women and ranks near the top across most presented measures of preventive care.

RI
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

78

South Carolina Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 66.1% 30.7% 1.9% 0.4% 1.1% 2,063,083

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 751.9 937.7 246.4 349.5 373.2 795.9 † 42

Heart disease 197.3 250.3 54.9 * 109.2 209.3 † 30

Coronary heart disease 133.4 169.0 * * * 141.3 166.0 27

Total cancer 160.3 181.7 47.9 * 112.9 165.0 159.9 21

Breast cancer 24.6 35.9 * * * 27.5 22.3 40

Colorectal cancer 17.0 21.6 * * * 18.0 13.9 25

Lung cancer 43.5 27.8 * * * 39.5 44.9 20

Stroke 69.9 100.2 * * * 77.0 48.0 52

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 116.4 45.8 * * * 99.3 60.0 16

Diabetes-related 61.5 154.3 * * * 83.1 45.0 45

Infl uenza and pneumonia 19.7 18.7 * * * 19.4 † 22

Unintentional injuries 30.0 28.9 * * * 29.4 17.5 43

Suicide 6.1 1.3 * * * 4.7 5.0 33

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 24.1 35.8 22.4 31.1 * 27.0 ‡ 42

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 18.1 40.6 21.4 28.8 * 24.2 15.0 45

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 25.2 36.5 40.5 31.8 33.7 28.9 20.0 32

Binge drinking 7.0 3.2 * * * 5.8 † 13

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 27.8 15.2 21.6 40.4 * 23.8 12.0 40

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 83.2 93.6 97.5 75.2 96.4 87.5 99.0 22

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 26.5 27.9 33.9 53.2 * 27.7 † 23

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 77.6 74.4 67.6 83.9 54.8 76.6 80.0 12

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 74.9 75.7 80.4 61.9 63.2 74.9 70.0 26

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 86.3 87.7 92.8 85.0 77.7 86.5 90.0 8

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 32.7 21.1 * * - 29.7 50.0 28

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 89.6 94.2 95.2 76.2 80.5 90.9 † 15

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 78.8 67.9 58.7 73.1 72.4 74.2 90.0 30

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 85.1 76.2 73.3 81.6 67.8 82.1 100.0 35

Part of a region in the South that has been identifi ed as the “stroke belt,” South Carolina has the 

highest rate of stroke death among females in the U.S.21 Diabetes-related death rates and rates of 

death due to unintentional injuries, a category that includes motor vehicle crashes, are also high 

among females in the state. South Carolina has one of the highest rates of obesity among women, a health risk factor 

linked with stroke and diabetes.5, 6 Obesity rates are particularly high among black women in the state. The state has 

one of the highest proportions of women who have received a recent Pap smear, a test that aids in the early detection 

of cervical cancer. South Carolina ranks in the middle ranges across most other presented measures of preventive care.

SC
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

79

South Dakota Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 89.0% 0.6% 1.3% 8.7% 0.7% 380,286

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 618.5 * * 1163.0 * 644.4 † 4

Heart disease 170.5 * * 260.3 * 174.7 † 15

Coronary heart disease 119.5 * * 174.4 * 122.0 166.0 16

Total cancer 154.8 * * 199.8 * 156.1 159.9 9

Breast cancer 23.9 * * * * 23.3 22.3 5

Colorectal cancer 19.2 * * * * 19.0 13.9 38

Lung cancer 30.9 * * 54.6 * 31.7 44.9 6

Stroke 54.9 * * 67.8 * 55.5 48.0 15

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 85.3 * * * * 85.6 60.0 6

Diabetes-related 51.8 * * 196.2 * 57.1 45.0 8

Infl uenza and pneumonia 18.3 * * * * 19.2 † 18

Unintentional injuries 22.3 * * 63.5 * 26.0 17.5 33

Suicide 3.6 * * * * 3.6 5.0 14

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 22.0 * 21.4 32.2 * 22.5 ‡ 14

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 18.9 * 22.6 33.3 * 19.7 15.0 20

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 24.7 * 23.7 31.8 35.1 25.2 20.0 17

Binge drinking 10.4 - * 13.1 * 10.4 † 45

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 20.7 * 28.7 39.4 26.5 21.9 12.0 29

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) --- --- --- --- --- --- 99.0 ---

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 23.8 51.4 29.6 26.5 * 24.1 † 42

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 67.9 * 71.1 64.6 61.4 67.5 80.0 49

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 74.6 * 76.4 65.1 66.7 74.3 70.0 32

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 86.2 74.5 84.8 85.3 79.1 86.0 90.0 15

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 28.6 * 32.4 19.6 - 28.2 50.0 32

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 89.6 82.5 89.2 89.3 83.2 89.6 † 22

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 81.3 67.5 66.5 49.0 77.5 75.6 90.0 23

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 89.2 77.2 84.3 63.4 81.9 87.6 100.0 19

Females in South Dakota have some of the lowest rates of death due to cancer in the U.S., 

specifi cally breast and lung cancers. The state also has low rates of diabetes-related death 

among females and chronic lower respiratory disease death among women age 45 and older. 

South Dakota has one of the highest percentages of women who report binge drinking, which has been shown to have 

more adverse health effects for women than for men, including organ damage and increased risk of motor vehicle crash 

and interpersonal violence.12 Across most presented measures of preventive care, South Dakota ranks in the middle 

ranges. However, it ranks near the bottom on percentage of women who have had a recent cholesterol screening, an 

important health risk prevention strategy for reducing rates of coronary heart disease and stroke.15

SD
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

80

Tennessee Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 79.8% 17.1% 1.7% 0.3% 1.1% 2,919,008

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 790.2 1048.4 287.8 216.0 422.5 819.6 † 45

Heart disease 226.9 324.6 70.5 * 118.5 237.7 † 44

Coronary heart disease 178.1 247.8 46.5 * 93.4 185.5 166.0 49

Total cancer 166.6 213.9 84.5 * 108.0 171.4 159.9 33

Breast cancer 25.3 33.5 * * * 26.2 22.3 28

Colorectal cancer 17.0 29.8 * * * 18.4 13.9 30

Lung cancer 43.6 45.5 * * * 43.4 44.9 34

Stroke 72.5 93.2 * * * 74.7 48.0 50

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 120.6 67.9 * * * 113.8 60.0 33

Diabetes-related 66.0 151.4 * * 60.3 75.8 45.0 42

Infl uenza and pneumonia 27.0 23.6 * * * 26.5 † 50

Unintentional injuries 31.1 27.2 18.5 * * 30.2 17.5 45

Suicide 5.3 2.2 * * * 4.7 5.0 33

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 26.6 38.7 27.9 * * 28.3 ‡ 48

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 21.3 37.0 19.9 * * 23.5 15.0 40

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 34.8 43.8 39.0 * * 36.2 20.0 49

Binge drinking 3.0 2.8 - - - 2.8 † 1

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 26.5 16.0 23.3 * * 24.5 12.0 44

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 79.3 91.5 97.0 76.9 97.1 82.9 99.0 36

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 36.1 31.1 35.8 * 39.6 35.4 † 2

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 72.2 69.4 74.3 77.4 * 71.8 80.0 28

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 75.9 73.5 83.0 * 66.9 75.5 70.0 20

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 85.1 88.9 84.1 80.1 61.9 85.4 90.0 18

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 25.8 22.0 * * 45.7 25.4 50.0 40

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 91.4 94.6 93.0 98.1 85.9 91.9 † 7

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 81.2 67.6 54.4 69.3 76.8 77.2 90.0 17

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 89.9 85.9 84.9 77.2 83.2 88.9 100.0 14

Tennessee ranks among the states with the highest death rates among females due 

to heart disease and stroke, and it is one of few states in which females have not yet 

met the Healthy People 2010 target for coronary heart disease death. Heart disease and stroke are associated with 

high blood pressure, physical inactivity and smoking, three health risk factors that are prevalent among women in 

Tennessee.3, 4, 7, 11 The state has one of the highest percentages of women who eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables 

a day, a measure of nutrition that is an important component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ 

prevention initiative Steps to a HealthierUS.

2

 Tennessee stands out as having the lowest proportion of women who 

report binge drinking in the U.S. 

TN
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

81

Texas Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 53.7% 11.9% 31.2% 0.7% 3.1% 10,498,910

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 753.7 981.7 639.8 145.8 405.6 752.6 † 33

Heart disease 214.9 306.0 182.3 35.3 112.2 217.5 † 34

Coronary heart disease 158.3 229.5 142.4 22.8 83.5 161.6 166.0 36

Total cancer 165.6 208.6 124.8 22.8 90.4 160.9 159.9 16

Breast cancer 25.5 37.0 18.5 * 9.7 25.2 22.3 17

Colorectal cancer 16.3 26.7 11.6 * 8.8 16.4 13.9 14

Lung cancer 45.6 43.3 15.0 * 18.8 39.1 44.9 18

Stroke 64.8 86.8 50.9 * 47.6 65.2 48.0 38

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 131.1 68.1 41.0 * 35.2 108.8 60.0 29

Diabetes-related 61.3 159.9 132.5 28.0 44.9 81.7 45.0 44

Infl uenza and pneumonia 21.0 18.6 17.4 * 10.7 20.2 † 28

Unintentional injuries 28.1 24.0 19.3 * 15.0 25.0 17.5 30

Suicide 5.7 2.0 1.5 * 3.4 4.1 5.0 21

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 23.5 39.1 28.0 29.4 * 25.9 ‡ 38

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 19.1 36.3 33.7 28.4 * 24.3 15.0 47

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 24.3 35.5 41.6 32.4 14.0 30.8 20.0 40

Binge drinking 9.3 5.1 7.3 16.3 * 8.0 † 28

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 23.8 15.4 12.9 35.5 4.3 19.3 12.0 7

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 87.4 94.1 97.9 83.9 98.5 93.4 99.0 3

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 27.1 31.5 28.7 34.7 27.3 28.3 † 20

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 77.4 72.7 65.3 71.7 76.4 73.2 80.0 21

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 69.7 71.7 60.4 64.8 53.5 67.0 70.0 49

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 82.5 86.6 77.9 61.2 54.8 80.8 90.0 46

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 27.5 25.8 8.9 * * 24.1 50.0 42

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 86.5 94.8 81.9 78.5 77.7 85.9 † 42

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 79.6 67.8 62.7 68.1 77.4 70.5 90.0 38

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 83.3 73.7 51.5 62.1 86.8 71.7 100.0 52

Texas has one of the highest rates of diabetes-related death among women in the U.S. The state 

ranks among those with the highest frequencies of obesity among women, a health risk factor 

associated with diabetes.5, 6 Texas has one of the best records on smoking among women, with 

low percentages of women who smoke and high proportions of mothers who abstain from smoking 

during pregnancy. The state has one of the worst records across presented measures of preventive care. It is one of 

few states that have not yet met the Healthy People 2010 target for mammography, and it ranks near the bottom in 

percentage of women who have received a recent Pap smear. Texas has the lowest levels of health insurance coverage 

among non-senior women in the U.S., a rate that is particularly low among Hispanic women in the state.

TX
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

82

Utah Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 86.9% 0.8% 8.4% 1.5% 2.7% 1,114,138

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 683.9 847.4 567.3 824.9 510.3 681.0 † 12

Heart disease 159.7 * 109.9 127.5 89.4 157.6 † 5

Coronary heart disease 87.3 * 66.1 * 58.5 86.5 166.0 2

Total cancer 128.1 * 89.9 137.3 106.9 126.6 159.9 2

Breast cancer 22.8 * * * * 22.3 22.3 3

Colorectal cancer 14.0 * * * * 13.8 13.9 4

Lung cancer 16.9 * * * * 16.6 44.9 2

Stroke 63.8 * 49.9 * 59.5 63.6 48.0 36

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 78.0 * * * * 76.7 60.0 4

Diabetes-related 65.5 * 108.6 199.2 81.3 68.1 45.0 26

Infl uenza and pneumonia 23.9 * 33.5 * * 24.2 † 47

Unintentional injuries 22.5 * 19.0 * * 22.7 17.5 21

Suicide 6.0 * * * * 5.8 5.0 44

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 22.4 * 15.4 * * 22.2 ‡ 12

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 17.7 * 19.8 * * 18.0 15.0 11

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 18.1 * 24.9 43.0 * 18.9 20.0 2

Binge drinking 4.5 * 4.7 * * 4.6 † 5

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 11.2 * 10.4 20.7 * 11.3 12.0 2

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 91.6 85.0 95.4 90.3 96.1 92.1 99.0 6

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 26.9 * 19.0 * 38.2 26.8 † 26

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 68.7 90.8 62.8 * 60.8 68.4 80.0 44

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 69.3 78.2 73.2 69.1 76.5 69.3 70.0 47

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 77.7 86.8 74.9 89.0 73.1 77.4 90.0 51

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 21.8 89.0 * * * 21.8 50.0 46

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 82.9 95.6 79.0 63.3 87.9 82.8 † 48

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 61.3 46.0 46.5 43.7 48.6 58.8 90.0 51

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 87.6 84.5 73.3 55.2 95.6 86.6 100.0 25

Utah has some of the lowest rates of death among females in the U.S. due to heart disease, cancer, 

and chronic lower respiratory disease. Utah ranks among states with the lowest proportions of women 

who smoke and who report binge drinking. It also has one of the lowest levels of physical inactivity 

among women. Reducing smoking and increasing exercise are components of the U.S. Department 

of Health and Human Services’ prevention initiative Steps to a HealthierUS.

2

 Utah ranks among states with the 

lowest percentages of women who receive regular preventive care across presented measures. The proportion of 

mothers in Utah who receive early and adequate prenatal care is particularly low. Prenatal care can reduce the risks of 

complications during pregnancy and delivering before 37 weeks gestation.18

UT
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

83

Vermont Profi le

Vermont ranks among states with the highest rates of colorectal cancer and diabetes-related death among 

females in the U.S. The state has some of the lowest frequencies of diagnosed high blood pressure and 

obesity among women. Vermont ranks among the states with the best records on two components of the 

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ prevention initiative Steps to a HealthierUS, in having one , in having one 

of the lowest proportions of women who are physically inactive and a one of the highest percentages of women who 

eat the recommended number of fruits and vegetables a day.2 Vermont has one of the best records on percentage of 

women who have recently taken a blood stool test, which is used to diagnosis colorectal cancer and other diseases of 

the digestive system.17

VT

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 97.1% 0.5% 0.9% 0.5% 1.0% 310,490

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 703.8 * * * * 699.9 † 22

Heart disease 181.5 * * * * 180.4 † 18

Coronary heart disease 131.5 * * * * 130.9 166.0 22

Total cancer 169.5 * * * * 168.9 159.9 27

Breast cancer 28.0 * * * * 27.8 22.3 41

Colorectal cancer 19.7 * * * * 19.5 13.9 44

Lung cancer 38.9 * * * * 38.5 44.9 16

Stroke 53.8 * * * * 53.5 48.0 12

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 122.0 * * * * 121.1 60.0 38

Diabetes-related 78.4 * * * * 77.9 45.0 43

Infl uenza and pneumonia 19.1 * * * * 19.0 † 16

Unintentional injuries 23.7 * * * * 23.5 17.5 23

Suicide 3.8 * * * * 3.7 5.0 16

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 20.8 * * 37.1 * 20.9 ‡ 4

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 17.8 * 20.2 * * 17.9 15.0 10

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 20.6 * 19.6 29.8 * 20.7 20.0 5

Binge drinking 10.7 * * * * 10.6 † 47

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 21.3 * 22.7 35.9 * 21.4 12.0 25

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 81.0 85.6 87.5 67.6 92.6 81.1 99.0 45

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 35.3 * 24.6 * 45.0 35.3 † 3

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 75.1 72.0 71.2 79.5 52.3 74.8 80.0 18

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 76.2 62.8 * * 93.6 75.8 70.0 19

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 86.6 93.6 75.7 68.4 85.4 86.3 90.0 11

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 43.1 * 66.5 * - 43.1 50.0 2

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 90.1 94.4 91.0 87.2 82.8 90.0 † 20

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 72.8 68.1 72.7 73.5 69.2 72.7 90.0 33

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 89.8 96.1 88.6 77.2 100.0 89.8 100.0 11
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

84

Virginia Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 70.9% 20.4% 4.3% 0.4% 4.2% 3,606,620

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 723.4 913.5 429.4 331.9 400.0 749.7 † 32

Heart disease 192.2 247.2 105.7 119.1 90.2 199.9 † 27

Coronary heart disease 124.4 155.6 65.7 * 49.2 128.3 166.0 19

Total cancer 168.2 205.8 93.3 * 105.3 172.4 159.9 35

Breast cancer 26.7 38.3 17.2 * 11.1 28.2 22.3 44

Colorectal cancer 16.9 25.6 * * 11.6 18.2 13.9 27

Lung cancer 44.2 38.9 16.2 * 18.1 42.4 44.9 30

Stroke 61.5 85.1 36.3 * 46.8 65.3 48.0 39

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 117.1 59.8 * * * 105.4 60.0 25

Diabetes-related 57.6 125.1 40.0 * 31.3 67.6 45.0 24

Infl uenza and pneumonia 22.5 19.5 * * * 21.9 † 36

Unintentional injuries 23.2 19.9 10.0 * 15.4 22.2 17.5 17

Suicide 5.5 2.1 * * * 4.6 5.0 28

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 25.2 35.4 12.5 * * 26.2 ‡ 39

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 17.7 35.6 20.3 * * 20.6 15.0 24

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 24.6 38.2 37.1 36.7 33.0 27.6 20.0 26

Binge drinking 8.5 5.4 * * * 7.9 † 27

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 21.8 17.6 19.9 * * 20.6 12.0 18

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 89.5 93.3 98.9 90.2 98.8 91.6 99.0 8

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 30.6 26.1 36.4 * 41.8 30.6 † 14

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 75.4 76.1 72.3 84.3 58.9 75.4 80.0 16

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 74.6 76.3 73.7 * * 74.3 70.0 32

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 86.2 87.4 83.5 91.1 * 85.7 90.0 16

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 32.0 31.6 * * * 31.4 50.0 22

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 88.2 96.3 82.1 89.6 92.5 89.6 † 22

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 83.6 71.8 65.3 75.4 78.0 79.2 90.0 12

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 88.5 82.2 73.4 77.1 89.5 86.4 100.0 27

Virginia ranks among states with the highest rates of death among females due to breast 

cancer. The state is in an area along the Atlantic in the Northeast and South regions, which 

has been identifi ed by the National Cancer Institute as having notably high rates of breast cancer.20 Across most 

presented measures of health risk factors, Virginia ranks in the middle ranges but it has one of highest percentages 

of women who abstain from smoking during pregnancy. Virginia also ranks near the top in having a high percentage 

of women who receive early and adequate prenatal care. However, the percentage of black and Hispanic women in 

Virginia who receive this care is signifi cantly lower than the white population, which may put these women at greater 

risk of experiencing complications during pregnancy and delivering before 37 weeks gestation.18

VA
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

85

Washington Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 81.2% 3.4% 7.0% 1.9% 6.9% 2,959,821

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 696.3 866.3 464.4 954.6 426.7 689.1 † 17

Heart disease 168.7 233.1 109.3 200.9 97.3 167.1 † 10

Coronary heart disease 126.2 180.8 81.5 144.5 77.1 125.1 166.0 17

Total cancer 173.3 187.0 113.9 162.6 106.0 169.2 159.9 28

Breast cancer 24.9 34.6 12.7 * 13.5 24.3 22.3 12

Colorectal cancer 15.8 21.9 * * 10.3 15.7 13.9 9

Lung cancer 49.3 38.1 15.0 46.0 18.1 46.8 44.9 47

Stroke 66.9 98.9 43.0 112.5 54.8 67.4 48.0 44

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 132.2 70.7 * 168.8 38.9 126.2 60.0 45

Diabetes-related 60.0 134.9 96.8 121.8 58.0 62.1 45.0 17

Infl uenza and pneumonia 17.8 15.4 * 32.0 7.7 17.5 † 10

Unintentional injuries 22.5 20.6 14.4 41.8 12.9 22.3 17.5 19

Suicide 5.4 * * * 4.1 5.0 5.0 39

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 22.0 29.8 29.8 31.7 26.3 22.5 ‡ 14

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 19.1 28.2 23.0 28.5 13.0 19.3 15.0 15

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 16.5 26.4 28.5 28.9 23.6 17.8 20.0 1

Binge drinking 7.7 * 10.5 * * 7.5 † 23

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 20.4 19.6 19.9 30.5 10.1 20.1 12.0 13

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 84.2 85.7 95.8 73.9 94.5 86.5 99.0 27

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 30.7 24.7 25.9 18.6 31.5 30.1 † 15

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 73.1 66.4 70.1 73.2 62.3 72.2 80.0 24

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 73.8 65.8 79.9 65.4 71.1 73.3 70.0 37

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 83.0 85.9 80.1 84.8 78.3 82.3 90.0 37

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 41.8 50.3 53.9 44.3 - 41.4 50.0 4

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 87.4 95.1 86.3 88.2 85.7 87.3 † 38

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 72.8 60.1 59.6 59.2 66.8 69.7 90.0 40

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 88.7 88.2 82.3 84.6 93.9 88.4 100.0 17

Females in Washington have some of the lowest rates of death due to heart disease, colorectal 

cancer and infl uenza and pneumonia in the U.S. However, the state ranks among those with 

the highest death rates among females due to lung cancer, stroke and chronic lower respiratory 

disease. The state leads the nation in having the lowest percentage of women do not engage in regular physical activity 

during their leisure-time, and Washington is one of only two states in which women have already met the Healthy 

People 2010 target for this health indicator. The state has one of the highest proportions of women who have recently 

taken a blood stool test, a test that aids in the early diagnosis of colorectal cancer.17

WA
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

86

West Virginia Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 95.4% 3.2% 0.6% 0.2% 0.6% 929,174

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 847.4 964.7 289.7 * 200.9 846.5 † 51

Heart disease 257.3 263.5 * * * 255.9 † 50

Coronary heart disease 180.3 190.7 * * * 179.5 166.0 47

Total cancer 187.5 216.9 * * * 187.2 159.9 51

Breast cancer 26.0 40.4 * * * 26.3 22.3 30

Colorectal cancer 20.2 24.6 * * * 20.2 13.9 51

Lung cancer 53.9 54.6 * * * 53.6 44.9 51

Stroke 59.0 75.0 * * * 59.3 48.0 27

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 145.1 77.4 * * * 142.4 60.0 50

Diabetes-related 97.6 187.0 * * * 99.5 45.0 50

Infl uenza and pneumonia 20.5 19.8 * * * 20.4 † 29

Unintentional injuries 26.5 29.9 * * * 26.6 17.5 34

Suicide 4.7 * * * * 4.6 5.0 28

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 28.0 36.8 42.2 * - 28.3 ‡ 48

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 24.8 32.3 27.9 * * 25.0 15.0 49

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 32.3 39.9 40.3 42.1 41.5 32.8 20.0 45

Binge drinking 4.4 * * * - 4.5 † 4

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 27.9 25.1 37.2 60.0 * 28.1 12.0 51

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 73.4 73.4 85.8 73.2 96.5 73.6 99.0 50

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 25.3 23.7 26.4 * * 25.4 † 34

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 71.9 72.2 69.0 61.7 71.2 71.7 80.0 29

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 73.5 78.3 * 88.8 61.7 73.5 70.0 36

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 82.0 79.0 76.6 82.0 70.1 81.9 90.0 40

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 21.1 * * * - 21.2 50.0 48

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 87.4 93.0 84.6 100.0 83.8 87.5 † 37

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 79.9 69.3 69.2 74.4 76.1 79.4 90.0 10

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 77.8 67.2 74.1 77.0 86.1 77.5 100.0 48

West Virginia has some of the highest death rates among females due to heart disease, cancer, 

chronic lower respiratory disease and diabetes-related death. It is one of few states in which females 

have not yet met the Healthy People 2010 targets for reducing death due to coronary heart disease 

and lung cancer. West Virginia has one of the highest proportions of women who smoke, a leading 

cause of cancer and other diseases.11 It ranks near the bottom in having high rates of diagnosed high blood pressure, 

obesity and physical inactivity among women, health risk factors that are associated with heart disease and diabetes.3, 

5-8 West Virginia ranks near the top in having a low percentage of women who report binge drinking. It has one of the 

lowest levels of health insurance coverage among women under 65.

WV
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

87

Wisconsin Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 88.1% 6.0% 3.3% 1.0% 1.8% 2,714,634

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 674.6 928.3 275.3 861.3 463.7 682.6 † 13

Heart disease 183.6 241.9 73.1 205.8 106.1 185.4 † 19

Coronary heart disease 127.0 158.3 52.1 135.6 64.2 127.8 166.0 18

Total cancer 161.4 198.5 46.6 156.7 95.4 161.1 159.9 17

Breast cancer 26.1 32.7 * * * 26.1 22.3 26

Colorectal cancer 16.8 25.0 * * * 17.0 13.9 18

Lung cancer 36.4 48.7 * 48.9 * 36.5 44.9 11

Stroke 59.7 85.4 33.5 * 73.5 60.5 48.0 31

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 95.5 82.6 * * * 94.7 60.0 11

Diabetes-related 60.3 143.9 71.2 183.2 73.6 63.3 45.0 18

Infl uenza and pneumonia 19.5 19.9 * * * 19.5 † 24

Unintentional injuries 24.9 19.5 * 60.8 * 24.8 17.5 29

Suicide 4.4 * * * * 4.4 5.0 25

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 22.7 41.2 25.1 32.3 * 23.4 ‡ 22

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 19.2 42.1 27.0 37.1 * 20.3 15.0 22

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 21.3 45.3 31.6 34.6 33.5 23.0 20.0 12

Binge drinking 16.7 8.2 12.8 * * 16.0 † 52

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 22.9 25.6 24.7 30.9 * 23.1 12.0 37

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 83.0 79.8 93.1 61.6 97.0 83.5 99.0 34

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 26.5 22.0 26.5 17.8 52.3 26.5 † 29

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 74.0 63.2 70.5 * 40.9 73.4 80.0 20

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 77.7 81.7 84.8 * * 77.7 70.0 12

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 85.3 87.8 81.5 78.9 56.7 84.9 90.0 21

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 28.5 * * * - 28.1 50.0 33

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 83.1 94.3 81.6 86.3 84.0 83.6 † 46

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 80.4 58.1 61.9 61.3 60.2 76.2 90.0 21

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 91.0 84.9 88.9 80.2 85.7 90.3 100.0 7

Wisconsin ranks near the top in having low rates of death among females due to lung cancer and 

chronic lower respiratory disease (among women 45 and older). Wisconsin has the highest percentage 

of women who report binge drinking in the U.S. Alcohol abuse has been shown to have more 

adverse health effects for women than for men and is associated with organ damage, as well as an 

increased risk of motor vehicle crashes and interpersonal violence.12 Across most other presented health risk factor 

measurements, the state ranks in the middle ranges. Wisconsin has one of the lowest proportions of women who have 

received a recent routine check-up. However, it ranks among those with the highest levels of health insurance coverage 

among non-senior women.

WI
¶

 Estimate age-adjusted and for all ages unless noted.

§

 Estimate age-adjusted and for 18 years of age and

over unless noted.

NOTE: All data are from 1999-2001 unless noted.

NOTE: Low numerical rankings indicate better relative health status.

NOTE: State rank includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, where data are available and reliable.

 * Figure does not meet standard of 

reliability or precision.

--- Data not available.

– Quantity zero.

† No Healthy People 2010 target associated 

with this health indicator.

‡ Healthy People 2010 target is incompatible 

with collected data.

88

Wyoming Profi le

NonHispanic 

White

NonHispanic 

Black Hispanic

American 

Indian/

Alaskan

Native

Asian/ 

Pacifi c 

Islander State Total

Healthy 

People 

2010 

National 

Target

State 

Rank

Female population (2000) (all ages) 90.1% 0.7% 6.3% 2.5% 0.8% 245,408

Major causes of death among females (rate per 100,000)¶

All cause 729.6 983.2 698.1 1056.4 * 736.1 † 29

Heart disease 172.2 * 157.4 274.0 * 173.0 † 14

Coronary heart disease 106.5 * 96.6 * * 106.5 166.0 9

Total cancer 164.0 * 139.3 226.3 * 164.1 159.9 18

Breast cancer 24.4 * * * * 23.7 22.3 7

Colorectal cancer 18.2 * * * * 18.4 13.9 30

Lung cancer 40.2 * * * * 39.8 44.9 21

Stroke 57.3 * * * * 58.2 48.0 24

Chronic lower respiratory diseases (age 45 & over) 160.8 * * * * 156.2 60.0 51

Diabetes-related 58.6 * 134.3 201.3 * 63.3 45.0 18

Infl uenza and pneumonia 25.9 * * * * 26.5 † 50

Unintentional injuries 31.5 * * * * 32.9 17.5 49

Suicide 7.1 * * * * 6.6 5.0 48

Health risk factors (percent)

§

Diagnosed high blood pressure 20.8 * 26.9 * * 20.9 ‡ 4

Obesity (2000–2002) (age 20 & over) 18.1 * 17.3 30.4 * 18.2 15.0 12

No leisure-time physical activity (2000–2002) 21.5 * 29.9 24.7 * 21.9 20.0 8

Binge drinking 8.3 - 10.4 * * 8.4 † 31

Smoking currently (2000–2002) 22.3 55.3 26.3 37.9 * 22.9 12.0 35

No smoking during pregnancy (2000–2002) (all ages) 77.8 81.8 86.6 75.4 94.6 78.7 99.0 48

Eats 5+ fruits and vegetables a day (2000–2002) 25.8 * 25.9 * * 25.8 † 32

Preventive care (percent)

§

Cholesterol screening in past 5 yrs. 72.5 88.2 68.1 61.9 66.2 72.1 80.0 25

Mammogram in past 2 yrs. (2000–2002) (age 40 & over) 67.2 76.0 57.2 * 39.5 66.4 70.0 51

Pap smear in past 3 yrs. (2000–2002) 80.2 76.2 79.2 80.3 81.0 80.0 90.0 49

Blood stool test in past 2 yrs. (age 50 & over) 21.5 - * * - 21.3 50.0 47

Routine check-up in past 2 yrs. (1998–2000) 82.7 91.1 82.1 86.2 71.8 82.8 † 48

Early and adequate prenatal care (all ages) 73.4 70.8 62.9 63.5 66.9 71.9 90.0 36

Health insurance coverage (percent)

Health insurance coverage (2000–2002) (ages 18–64) 81.2 84.1 69.1 73.5 59.2 80.2 100.0 42

Females in Wyoming have some of the lowest rates of coronary heart disease and breast cancer 

death in the U.S. Wyoming ranks among those with the highest rates of death among females 

due to chronic lower respiratory disease, infl uenza and pneumonia, unintentional injuries and 

suicide. The state has some of the lowest frequencies of diagnosed high blood pressure among 

women and ranks near the top in having a low percentage of women who engage in no leisure-time physical activity. 

Wyoming ranks near the bottom on proportion of pregnant women who abstain from smoking during pregnancy. It has 

some of the lowest percentages of women who receive preventive care across all presented measures, and is one of 

only a few states that have not yet met the Healthy People 2010 target for mammography.

WY
Appendices
91

Appendix I: Data Sources

Introduction to data sources

This chartbook consolidates the most current data on the health of women in the United States. The information 

was obtained from the data systems of two Centers within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): 

the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion and the National Center for Health 

Statistics. In each case, the sponsoring organization collected data using its own methods and procedures. 

Therefore, the data in this chartbook vary with respect to source, method of collection, defi nitions, and reference 

period.

Although a detailed description and comprehensive evaluation of each data source are beyond the scope of 

this appendix, users should be aware of the general strengths and limitations of the different data systems. For 

example, population-based surveys obtain sociodemographic data, data on family characteristics, and information 

on health behaviors. These data are limited by the amount of information a respondent remembers or is willing to 

report. Specifi c medical information may not be known and if not known, may not be reported.

The populations covered by different data collection systems may not be the same, and understanding the 

differences is critical to interpreting the data. Data on vital statistics cover the entire population for all ages. 

Data on morbidity cover only the civilian noninstitutionalized population who are 18 years of age and over. Such 

statistics do not include data for military personnel who are usually young, for institutionalized people who may 

be any age, or for nursing home residents who are usually old.

All data collection systems are subject to error, and records may be incomplete or contain inaccurate information. 

People may not remember essential information, a question may not mean the same thing to different 

respondents, and some institutions or individuals may not respond at all. It is not always possible to measure the 

magnitude of these errors or their impact on the data. 

Overall estimates generally have relatively small sampling errors, but estimates for certain population subgroups 

may be based on small numbers and have relatively large sampling errors. Numbers of births and deaths from 

the vital statistics system represent complete counts. Therefore, they are not subject to sampling error. However, 

when the fi gures are used for analytical purposes, such as the comparison of rates between racial groups, the 

number of events that actually occurred may be considered as one of a large series of possible results that 

could have arisen under the same circumstances. When the number of events is small and the probability of 

such an event is small, considerable caution must be observed in interpreting the conditions described by the 

fi gures. Estimates that are unreliable because of large sampling errors or small numbers of events are noted 

with asterisks in selected tables. The criteria used to designate unreliable estimates are indicated in Appendix II: 

Relative Standard Error.

Descriptive summaries of the data sets that follow provide a general overview of study design, methods of data 

collection, and reliability and validity of the data. The agency or organization that sponsored the data collection is 

specifi ed. More complete and detailed discussions are in the publications and Web sites listed at the end of each 

summary. The entries are listed alphabetically by dataset name.

Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) is an ongoing, state-based telephone surveillance system 

administered and supported by the Division of Adult and Community Health, National Center for Chronic Disease 

Prevention and Health Promotion, CDC. State public health departments are collaborators with CDC in producing 

these data. 

The purpose of the BRFSS is to collect uniform, state-based data on preventive health practices and risk behaviors 

that are linked to chronic diseases, injuries, and preventable infectious diseases in the U.S. population. Data are 
92

collected through monthly telephone interviews conducted among a sample of each state’s adult population. 

When aggregated, the data show the prevalence of risk behaviors and preventive health practices on an annual 

basis. Respondents’ participation is voluntary and personal identifi ers such as names and addresses are not used. 

Individual-level data are pooled to provide information about the health practices of state residents. 

States collect behavioral risk data via telephone interviews. Telephone interviews are an effi cient method to 

collect data. Telephone interviews are easy to administer and monitor. All calls can be made from one location, 

and interviews are usually entered directly into a data fi le by use of computer-assisted methods. This enhances 

quality control efforts. Telephone interviews have some limitations, however. There is a major concern about 

non-coverage of persons in households without telephones and persons who only use cellular telephones which 

are not included in telephone survey sample universes. Also, data cannot be verifi ed by physical measurement or 

visual means, which can increase validity concerns.

BRFSS questionnaire

The BRFSS questionnaire is designed to give states the fl exibility to study areas of local concern while also 

providing annual data on topics of interest to all states and to CDC. The questionnaire has three parts: (1) the 

core component, consisting of the fi xed core, the rotating core, and emerging issues questions, (2) optional 

modules, and (3) state-added questions. All BRFSS data included in the Healthy Women: State Trends in Health 

and Mortality and Mortality project come from the core component of the survey. project come from the core component of the survey.

Core component questions are asked by all states. The core component includes queries about current healthrelated perceptions, conditions and behaviors, and questions on demographic characteristics. The fi xed core is a 

standard set of questions asked each year. The rotating core is two separate sets of standardized questions, each 

asked in alternating years. In the years that rotating topics are not used in the core, they are available as optional 

modules for states to use as desired. 

Each year, the states and CDC agree on the content of the core component and optional modules. For 

comparability, many of the questions are taken from established national surveys, such as the National Health 

Interview Survey and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. This practice allows states to 

compare their data with those from other surveys. 

Comparability of data

The BRFSS is a cross-sectional surveillance survey currently involving 52 reporting areas. It is important to note 

that any survey will have natural variation over sample sites; therefore some variation between states is to be 

expected. The complex sample design and the multiple reporting areas complicate the analysis of the BRFSS. 

Although CDC works with the states to minimize deviations, each year there are some deviations in sampling and 

weighting protocols, and slight differences in question wording, populations covered on some sections, sample 

size, response rates, and collection or processing procedures. Because of the differences in data collection by 

states, national estimates are not calculated from BRFSS for this publication.

For more information about the BRFSS, see the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for 

Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion online at: http://www.cdc.gov/brfss/.

National Vital Statistics System

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

National Center for Health Statistics

Through the National Vital Statistics System, the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) collects and 

publishes data on births, deaths, marriages, and divorces in the United States. The Division of Vital Statistics 

obtains information on births and deaths from the registration offi ces of all states, New York City, the District of 

Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam. Geographic coverage for births and deaths has been 

complete since 1933. 

In 1972, some states began sending their data to NCHS through the Cooperative Health Statistics System (CHSS). 

States that participated in the CHSS program processed 100 percent of their death and birth records and sent 
93

the entire data fi le to NCHS on computer tapes. Currently, the data are sent to NCHS through the Vital Statistics 

Cooperative Program (VSCP), following the same procedures as CHSS. Starting in 1985 all 50 states and the 

District of Columbia participated in VSCP.

In most areas practically all births and deaths are registered. The most recent test of the completeness of birth 

registration, conducted on a sample of births from 1964 to 1968, showed that 99.3 percent of all births in the 

U.S. during that period were registered. No comparable information is available for deaths, but it is generally 

believed that death registration in the U.S. is at least as complete as birth registration. The National Vital Statistics 

System is one of the few sources of comparable health-related data for smaller geographic areas in the U.S. and 

over a long time period. 

U.S. Standard Certifi cates

U.S. Standard Live Birth and Death Certifi cates and Fetal Death Reports are revised periodically, allowing 

careful evaluation of each item and addition, modifi cation, and deletion of items. The data presented in this 

chartbook come from the 1989 revised standard certifi cates. The 1989 revision of the birth certifi cate includes 

items to identify the Hispanic parentage of newborns and to expand information about maternal and infant 

health characteristics. The 1989 revision of the death certifi cate includes items on educational attainment and 

Hispanic origin of decedents, as well as changes to improve the medical certifi cation of cause of death. Standard 

certifi cates recommended by NCHS are modifi ed in each registration area to serve the area’s needs. However, 

most certifi cates conform closely in content and arrangement to the standard certifi cate, and all certifi cates 

contain a minimum data set specifi ed by NCHS. 

Birth fi le

The birth fi le is comprised of demographic and medical information from birth certifi cates. Demographic 

information, such as race and ethnicity, is provided by the mother at the time of birth. Medical and health 

information is based on hospital records. Reporting areas and methodologies for items on the birth certifi cate 

have changed over time, although little has changed over the period being presented in this chartbook. 

For more information, see National Center for Health Statistics, Vital Statistics of the United States, Vol. I Natality, 

Technical Appendix, available at: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/births.htm. 

Mortality fi le

The mortality data fi le is comprised of demographic and medical information from death certifi cates. Demographic 

information is provided by the funeral director based on information supplied by an informant. Medical certifi cation 

of cause of death is provided by a physician, medical examiner, or coroner. The mortality data fi le is a fundamental 

source of cause-of-death information by demographic characteristics and for geographic areas, such as states. 

For more information, see National Center for Health Statistics, Vital Statistics of the United States, Vol. II 

Mortality Part A, Technical Appendix, available at: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/datawh/statab/pubd/ta.htm. 

Population Census and Population Estimates

Bureau of the Census

Race data on Census 2000

The question on race on Census 2000 was based on the Offi ce of Management and Budget’s 1997 “Revisions 

of the Standards for the Classifi cation of Federal Data on Race and Ethnicity” (see Appendix II: Race). The 

1997 Standards changed the way race data are collected, tabulated and presented in two major ways. First, 

the 1997 Standards increased from four to fi ve the minimum set of categories to be used by Federal agencies 

for identifi cation of race: American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Black or African American, Native Hawaiian 

or Other Pacifi c Islander, and White. Second, the 1997 Standards included the requirement that Federal data 

collection programs allow respondents to select one or more race categories when responding to a query on their 

racial identity. This provision means that there are potentially 31 race groups, depending on whether an individual 

selects one, two, three, four, or all fi ve of the race categories. The 1997 Standards continue to call for use, when 

possible, of a separate question on Hispanic or Latino ethnicity and specify that the ethnicity question should 

appear before the question on race. Thus, under the 1997 Standards, Hispanics may be of any race.
94

Bridged-race population estimates for Census 2000

Race data on Census 2000 are not comparable with race data on other data systems that have continued to 

collect data using the 1977 Standards on race and ethnicity during the transition to full implementation of the 

1997 Standards. For example, most of the states in the Vital Statistics Cooperative Program were in the process 

of redesigning their birth and death certifi cates to conform to the 1997 Standards in 2001. Thus, population 

estimates for 2000 and beyond with race categories comparable to the 1977 categories are needed so that racespecifi c birth and death rates can be calculated. To meet this need, NCHS, in collaboration with the U.S. Census 

Bureau, developed methodology to bridge the 31 race groups in Census 2000 to the four single-race categories 

specifi ed under the 1977 Standards. 

The bridging methodology was developed using information from the 1997-2000 National Health Interview Survey 

(NHIS), an annual survey sponsored by NCHS and conducted by the Census Bureau. The NHIS provides a unique 

opportunity to investigate multiple-race groups because since 1982, the NHIS has allowed respondents to choose 

more than one race but has also asked respondents reporting multiple races to choose a “primary” race. The 

bridging methodology developed by NCHS involved the application of regression models relating person-level and 

county-level covariates to the selection of a particular primary race by the multiple-race respondents. Bridging 

proportions derived from these models were applied by the U.S. Census Bureau to the Census 2000 Modifi ed 

Race Data Summary File. This application resulted in bridged counts of the April 1, 2000 resident single-race 

populations for four racial groups, American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian or Pacifi c Islander, black, and white. 

For more information about bridged-race population estimates, see http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/about/major/dvs/

popbridge/popbridge.htm. 

Intercensal population estimates

The further from the census year on which the postcensal estimates are based, the less accurate are the 

postcensal estimates. With the completion of the decennial census at the end of the decade, intercensal estimates 

for the preceding decade were prepared to replace the less accurate postcensal estimates. Intercensal population 

estimates take into account the census of population at the beginning and end of the decade. Thus intercensal 

estimates are more accurate than postcensal estimates as they correct for the “error of closure” or difference 

between the estimated population at the end of the decade and the census count for that date. The error of 

closure differentially affects age, race, sex, and Hispanic origin subgroup populations as well as the rates based 

on these populations. Vital rates that were calculated using postcensal population estimates are routinely revised 

when intercensal estimates become available because the intercensal estimates correct for the error of closure. 

Intercensal estimates for the 1990s with race data comparable to the 1977 Standards have been derived so 

that vital rates for the 1990s could be revised to refl ect Census 2000. Calculation of the intercensal population 

estimates for the 1990s was complicated by the incomparability of the race data on the 1990 and 2000 censuses. 

The Census Bureau, in collaboration with National Cancer Institute and NCHS, derived race-specifi c intercensal 

population estimates for the 1990s using the 1990 Modifi ed Age, Race and Sex (MARS) fi le as the beginning 

population base and the bridged-race population estimates for April 1, 2000 as the ending population base. 

Bridged-race intercensal population estimates are available at: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/about/major/dvs/

popbridge/popbridge.htm.

Healthy Women: State Trends in Health and Mortality

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

National Center for Health Statistics

In 1998, NCHS began work on the Healthy Women: State Trends in Health and Mortality project ( project (Healthy 

Women). The project was developed by NCHS with support from the Department of Health and Human Services’ ). The project was developed by NCHS with support from the Department of Health and Human Services’ 

Offi ce on Women’s Health and Offi ce for Minority Health. The goal of the project is to make information and 

statistics on the heath and well-being of women and men available in a user-friendly, Web-based format. From 

the Healthy Women Healthy Women website (http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm), data tables may be viewed and website (http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm), data tables may be viewed and 

downloaded that describe health status in each state by sex, race, Hispanic origin, age, and year, with a primary 
95

focus on women’s health issues. These tables include information on mortality, morbidity, health risk factors, 

access to care, and preventive care usage.

One of the main goals of this data dissemination project was to allow access to data by the public. Therefore, all 

data are pre-tabulated, age-adjusted where necessary, and presented only when NCHS’s standards of reliability 

and confi dentiality are met. To present the greatest number of estimates for small subpopulations, three year 

averages are presented. While this might not allow for quick identifi cation of changes in trend, it allows for a 

much greater number of reliable estimates to be included in the tables. These tables have been released both on 

CD-ROM and on the NCHS Internet site. 

Currently, the tables in the data warehouse include:

1. Mortality: 1997-2001

2. Natality: 1997-2002

3. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS): 1997--2002

Further information and access to these tables is available at: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm.
97

Appendix II: Defi nitions and Methods

Appendix II contains an alphabetical listing of terms used in the Women’s Health and Mortality Chartbook Women’s Health and Mortality Chartbook. It

includes cross-references to related terms and synonyms. It also describes the methods used for calculating rates. 

Age adjustment - Age adjustment is used to compare statistics for two or more populations at one point in time 

or one population at two or more points in time. Age-adjusted rates should be viewed as relative indexes rather 

than actual measures of risk. Age-adjusted rates and proportions are computed by the direct method by applying 

age-specifi c rates in a population of interest to a standardized age distribution in order to eliminate differences in 

observed rates or proportions that result from age differences in population composition.

Age-adjusted rates are calculated by the direct method as follows: 

where ri = rate or proportion in age group i in the population of interest in the population of interest 

pi= standard population in age group i

n = total number of age groups over the age range of the age-adjusted rate = total number of age groups over the age range of the age-adjusted rate

Age adjustment by the direct method requires use of a standard age distribution. The standard for age adjusting 

death rates and estimates for this chartbook is the year 2000 projected U.S. resident population.

Mortality data

Death rates are age adjusted to the year 2000 U.S. standard population (Table I). Age-adjusted rates are calculated using 

age-specifi c death rates per 100,000 population rounded to 1 decimal place. Adjustment is based on 11 age groups.

BRFSS

Proportions are age adjusted to the year 2000 U.S. standard population (Table I). Adjustment is generally based 

on 3 age groups: 18-44, 45-64, and 65+.

Table I. United States standard population, 2000

Age Number

All ages 1,000,000

Under 1 year 13,818

1-4 years 55,317

5-14 years 145,565

15-24 years 138,646

25-34 years 135,573

35-44 years 162,613

45-54 years 134,834

55-64 years 87,247

65-74 years 66,037

75-84 years 44,842

85 years and over 15,508

ri x (pi ∑ / P)

n

i =1

∑

n

i =1

P = pi
98

Body mass index (BMI) - See Obesity 

Binge drinking - BRFSS respondents were asked a series of questions on alcohol consumption. Respondents 

who consumed 5 or more drinks on at least one occasion in the last month were defi ned as ‘binge drinkers’. 

These alcohol consumption questions are part of a series of questions included in the standard BRFSS 

questionnaire in odd years and the data are generally reported as two year averages. The following states chose 

to also include the alcohol questions in 2000: Alaska, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Nevada, New Mexico, Ohio, Tennessee, 

Texas, Vermont, and Wisconsin. For these states, the data are reported as three year averages.

Blood stool tests - Blood stool testing, sometimes called fecal occult blood testing, is a chemical test that can 

detect minute traces of blood in the feces (stool). The test is normally done by applying a small sample of feces 

to a piece of paper that contains the reacting chemical. BRFSS respondents were asked the following questions: 

“A blood stool test is a test that may use a special kit at home to determine whether the stool contains blood. 

Have you ever had this test using a home kit?” and “How long has it been since you had your last blood stool test 

using a home kit?” (for year 2001) or “When did you have your last blood stool test using a home kit?” (for years 

1999 and 2000). The proportion shown are based on the respondents who answered “yes” to the fi rst question 

and “within the past year” or “within the past 2 years” to the second question. These questions are part of a 

series of questions included in the standard BRFSS questionnaire in odd years and the data are reported as two 

year averages. The following states chose to also include the blood stool test questions in 2000: Colorado, Illinois, 

Massachusetts, Ohio and Utah. For these states, the data are reported as three year averages. Illinois asked this 

question of only half its sample in 2001.

Cause of death - Cause of death is reported by attending physicians, medical examiners, and coroners on 

death certifi cates fi led in state vital statistics offi ces. For the purpose of national mortality statistics, every death 

is attributed to one underlying condition, based on information reported on the death certifi cate and utilizing 

the international rules for selecting the underlying cause of death from the reported conditions. Cause of death 

is coded according to the appropriate revision of the International Classifi cation of Diseases (ICD). The Tenth 

Revision (ICD-10) was implemented in the U.S. effective with deaths occurring in January 1999 (Table II). 

Underlying cause of death

The underlying cause is defi ned by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the disease or injury that initiated 

the train of events leading directly to death, or the circumstances of the accident or violence, which produced the 

fatal injury. In this chartbook, most death rates are computed using the underlying cause of death.

Multiple cause of death

The conditions that are not selected as underlying cause of death constitute the non-underlying cause of death, 

also known as multiple cause of death. In this chartbook, all deaths which listed diabetes as either underlying or 

multiple cause of death were tabulated within the category of diabetes-related deaths.
99

Table II. Codes for Selected Causes of Death, Tenth Revision of the

International Classifi cation of Diseases (ICD-10)

Cause of death ICD-10-codes

All cause A00-Z99

Heart disease I00-I09, I11, I13, I20-I51

Coronary heart disease I11, I20-I25

Total cancer C00-C97

Breast cancer C50

Colorectal cancer C18-21

Lung cancer C33-C34

Stroke I60-I69

Chronic lower respiratory disease J40-J47

Diabetes-related E10-E14

Infl uenza and pneumonia J10-J18

Unintentional injuries V01-X59, Y85-Y86

Suicide X60-X84

Cholesterol screening - BRFSS respondents were asked the questions: 1) “Blood cholesterol is a fatty 

substance found in the blood. Have you ever had your blood cholesterol checked?” and 2) “About how long has it 

been since you last had your blood cholesterol checked?” The proportions shown are based on the respondents 

who answered “yes” to the fi rst question and “within the past year”, “within the past 2 years”, or “within the past 

5 years” to the second question. These questions are part of a series of questions included in the standard BRFSS 

questionnaire in odd years and the data are generally reported as two year averages. The following states chose 

to also include the cholesterol questions in 2000: Illinois, Iowa, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Virginia. For 

these states, the data are reported as three year averages. Illinois asked this question of only half its sample in 

2001.

Death rate - Death rates are calculated by dividing the number of deaths in 1999-2001 in a population by the 

resident population in 2000 multiplied by three. Because 2000 was a census year, rates are based on unrounded 

census counts of the resident population, as of April 1. Death rates are expressed as the number of deaths per 

100,000 females (See related Appendix II: Age adjustment and Table I. United States standard population, 2000).

Diagnosed high blood pressure – see High blood pressure

Early and adequate prenatal care – see Prenatal care, early and adequate see Prenatal care, early and adequate

Exercise - see Leisure-time physical activity

Fecal occult blood testing - see Blood stool tests 

Fruit and vegetable consumption - Fruit and vegetable consumption is calculated according to formulas 

developed by BRFSS staff. This calculation was based on respondents’ answers to questions about average 

servings of fruit juice; fruits other than juices; green salad; potatoes not including french fries, fried potatoes, 

or potato chips; carrots; and all other vegetables. This series of questions is included in the standard BRFSS 

questions in even years and the data are reported as two year averages. The following states chose to also 

include the fruits and vegetables questions 2001: Arizona, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Montana, 

Ohio, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. For these states, the data are reported as three year averages. 
100

Geographic regions - The 50 states and the District of Columbia are grouped for statistical purposes by the 

U.S. Bureau of the Census into four geographic regions. These regions are as follows:

Northeast: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, 

Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont

Midwest: Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, 

Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin 

South: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, 

Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, 

Virginia, West Virginia 

West: Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, New Mexico, Montana, Oregon, Utah, 

Nevada, Washington, Wyoming 

Health insurance coverage - BRFSS respondents were asked the question “Do you have any kind of health 

care coverage, including health insurance, prepaid plans such as HMOs, or government plans such as Medicare?” 

The proportions shown are based on the respondents who answered “yes.” 

Healthy People 2010 - Healthy People 2010 is a national health promotion and disease prevention agenda, 

developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It is a statement of national health objectives 

designed to identify the most signifi cant preventable threats to health and to establish national objectives to 

reduce these threats. Healthy People 2010 is a set of health objectives for the Nation to achieve over the fi rst 

decade of the new century. More information on Healthy People 2010 is available at: http://www.health.gov/

healthypeople.

High blood pressure - BRFSS respondents were asked the question “Have you ever been told by a doctor, 

nurse, or other health professional that you have high blood pressure?” The proportions shown are based on the 

respondents who answered “yes.” This question is part of a series of questions included in the standard BRFSS 

questionnaire in odd years and the data are reported as two year averages. The following states chose to also 

include the hypertension question in 2000: Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Ohio, Tennessee, and Virginia. For these states, 

the data are reported as three year averages. Illinois asked this question of only half of its sample in 2001.

Hispanic origin - Hispanic or Latino origin includes persons of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Central and 

South American, and other or unknown Latin American or Spanish origins. Persons of Hispanic origin may be of 

any race. In BRFSS, questions on Hispanic origin are self-reported and precede questions on race. On the birth 

certifi cate, Hispanic origin of the mother is included as a check-box on the standard birth certifi cate form. 

Ethnicity information on the death certifi cate is reported by the funeral director as provided by an informant, often 

the surviving next of kin, or, in the absence of an informant, on the basis of observation. Ethnicity information 

from the census is by self report. To the extent Hispanic origin is inconsistent between these two data sources, 

death rates will be biased. Studies have shown that persons self reported as Hispanic on census and survey 

records may sometimes be reported as non-Hispanic on the death certifi cate, resulting in an underestimation of 

deaths and death rates for Hispanics. The net effects of misclassifi cation result in understated death rates for 

Hispanics by 2 percent. 

For more information, see Rosenberg HM, Maurer JD, Sorlie PD, Johnson NJ, et al. Quality of death rates by race 

and Hispanic origin: A summary of current research and Hispanic origin: A summary of current research, 1999. National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Health Stat , 1999. National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Health Stat 

2(128). 1999.
101

Hypothesis tests - Two-tailed tests of signifi cance were performed on all the comparisons mentioned in the text 

associated with each state’s table (no adjustments were made for multiple comparisons). The test statistic used 

to determine statistical signifi cance of the difference between two percents was: 

where Xa and Xb are the two percents/rates being compared, and Sa and Sb are the standard errors of 

those percents/rates. The critical value used for two-sided tests at the 0.05 level of signifi cance was 1.96.

Leisure-time physical activity - BRFSS respondents were asked, “During the past month, did you participate 

in any physical activities or exercises such as running, calisthenics, golf, gardening, or walking for exercise?” The 

proportions shown are based on the respondents who answered “no.”

Mammogram - A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast to check for cancer and other irregularities in breast 

tissue. BRFSS female respondents were asked the questions, “Have you ever had a mammogram?” and “How long 

has it been since you had your last mammogram?” The proportions shown are based on the respondents who 

answered “yes” to the fi rst question and “within the past year” or “within the past 2 years” to the second question. 

Female respondents in California received a modifi ed lead-in to the fi rst question which was “I would like to ask 

you a few questions about a medical exam called a mammogram.” Thus, while the actual questions were the 

same, the comparability of the California data to other states due to this modifi ed introduction is unknown. This 

question is part of a series of questions included in the standard BRFSS 2000 and 2002 core questionnaire and the 

data are reported as two year averages. In 2001, the following states chose to include these survey questions: 

Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Mississippi, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Dakota, 

Tennessee, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. For these states, the data are reported as three year averages. 

Obesity - Obesity is defi ned using the body mass index (BMI), a measure that adjusts bodyweight for height. 

BMI is calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. Obesity for adults is defi ned 

as a BMI greater than or equal to 30. BMI weight categories are defi ned in U.S. Department of Health and 

Human Services, Tracking Healthy People 2010 Tracking Healthy People 2010. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Offi ce, November . Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, November 

2000. Objectives 19.1, 19.2, and 19.3, or it is available at: http://www.health.gov/healthypeople/document/

html/volume2/19nutrition.htm. BRFSS depends on self-reported weight and height measurements, which may 

introduce error into the measure. 

Pap smear - A Pap smear (also known as a Papanicolaou smear or Pap test) is a microscopic examination of 

cells scraped from the cervix that is used to detect cancerous or precancerous conditions of the cervix. BRFSS 

female respondents were asked the questions, “A Pap smear is a test for cancer of the cervix. Have you ever had 

a Pap smear?” and “How long has it been since your last Pap smear?” The proportions shown are based on the 

respondents who answered “yes” to the fi rst question and “within the past year”, “within the past 2 years” or 

“within the past 3 years” to the second question. Respondents in California received a modifi ed lead-in to the fi rst 

question which was “A Pap smear is a test where material is taken from the cervix, that is the mouth of the womb, 

to see if any cancer cells are present. Have you ever had a Pap smear?” Thus, while the actual questions were the 

same, the comparability of the California data to other states due to this modifi ed introduction is unknown. This 

question is part of a series of questions included in the standard BRFSS 2000 and 2002 core questionnaire and the 

data are reported as two year averages. In 2001, 13 the following states chose to include these questions: Arizona, 

Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Mississippi, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, 

Wisconsin, and Wyoming. For those states, the data are reported as three year averages. 

Population - The U.S. Bureau of the Census collects and publishes data on populations in the United States 

according to several different defi nitions. Various statistical systems then use the appropriate population for 

calculating rates. See also Appendix I: Population Census and Population Estimates.

Z =

Xa - Xb

Sa 2 + Sb

2
102

Resident population

Resident population includes persons whose usual place of residence (that is, the place where one usually lives 

and sleeps) is in one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia. It includes members of the Armed Forces 

stationed in the U.S. and their families. It excludes international military, naval, and diplomatic personnel and 

their families located in this country and residing in embassies or similar quarters. Also excluded are international 

workers and international students in this country and Americans living abroad. The resident population is the 

denominator when calculating death rates. 

Civilian noninstitutionalized population

The civilian noninstitutionalized population is the civilian population not residing in institutions. Institutions include 

correctional institutions, detention homes, and training schools for juvenile delinquents; homes for aged and 

dependent persons (for example, nursing homes and convalescent homes); homes for dependent and neglected 

children; homes and schools for mentally or physically handicapped persons; homes for unwed mothers; 

psychiatric, tuberculosis, and chronic disease hospitals; and residential treatment centers. Census Bureau 

estimates of the civilian noninstitutionalized population are used to calculate sample weights for BRFSS.

Prenatal care, early and adequate - Early and adequate prenatal care is a measure that combines the month 

prenatal care began and total number of prenatal care visits. This measure is called the Adequacy of Prenatal 

Care Utilization Index which was previously developed.23 Adequacy of prenatal care is defi ned by this index based 

on two dimensions: the adequacy of initiation of prenatal care, which is determined by the month prenatal care 

begins, and the adequacy of received services, which compares the total number of prenatal visits adjusted for 

length of gestation with the expected number of visits based on standards set by American College of Obstetricians 

and Gynecologists. Births can be classifi ed as “intensive use,” “adequate,” “intermediate,” or “less than adequate.” 

For this indicator, adequate prenatal care is defi ned as a score of either “adequate” or “intensive use.” 

Quintiles - Quintiles means divided into fi ve parts. Quintiles were used in mapping indicators. Because 52 

geographic areas are presented on each map, it was necessary for some categories to contain more states than 

others. In each map, the category showing the best health status contained at least 10 states and the category 

showing the worst health status contained no more than 10 states. If states with equivalent values crossed the 

break between fi rst and second categories, both states were placed in the fi rst category. If states with equivalent 

values crossed the break between fourth and fi fth categories, both states were placed in the fourth category.

Map legend

Data value ranges describe the categories; they do not defi ne the categories. For example, on maps where dark 

colors indicate low numerical values, the minimum value of the 1st range presented in the legend is the minimum 

value for the whole distribution. The minimum value for the 2nd range presented in the legend is 1 decimal point 

above the value of the last state in the 1st range.

Race - In 1977, the Offi ce of Management and Budget (OMB) issued Race and Ethnicity Standards for Federal 

Statistics and Administrative Reporting in order to promote comparability of data among Federal data systems. 

The 1977 Standards called for the Federal Government’s data systems to classify individuals into the following 

four racial groups: American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian or Pacifi c Islander, black, and white. Depending on the 

data source, the classifi cation by race was based on self-classifi cation or on observation by an interviewer or other 

person fi lling out the questionnaire. The 1977 Standards were used to present race in this chartbook. 

Maternal race

If the race of the mother is not defi ned or not identifi able with one of the categories used in the classifi cation 

(0.4 percent of births in 2001) and the race of the father is known, the race of the father is assigned to the 

mother. Where information for both parents is missing, the race of the mother is allocated electronically 

according to the specifi c race of the mother on the preceding record with a known race of mother. Data for 

both parents were missing for only 0.3 percent of birth certifi cates for 2001.
103

BRFSS race

Before 2001, respondents to the BRFSS survey were allowed to identify as only one race from the following 

list: White, Black, Asian/Pacifi c Islander, American Indian/Alaska Native. In 2001, the questionnaire was 

changed. The fi rst change was that two Asian response categories were given: Asian and Native Hawaiian or 

Other Pacifi c Islander. The second change was to allow respondents the opportunity to give more than one 

response to the race question. Those respondents who answered they were of multiple races were asked 

“Which one of these groups would you say best represents your race?” Because the three-year averages 

calculated in the Healthy Women project include years with both single and multiple race questions, the 

preferred race was used in 2001 and 2002 for calculating proportions.

Mortality race

Deaths are classifi ed by race: white, black, American Indian, and Asian or Pacifi c Islander. The white category 

includes, in addition to persons reported as white, those reported in the race item on the death certifi cate 

as Hispanic, Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, and all other Caucasians. The American Indian category includes 

North, Central, and South American Indian, Eskimo, and Aleut. If the racial entry on the death certifi cate 

indicates a mixture of Hawaiian and any other race, the entry is coded to Hawaiian. If the race is given as 

a mixture of white and any other race, the entry is coded to the appropriate nonwhite race. If a mixture of 

races other than white is given (except Hawaiian), the entry is coded to the fi rst race listed.

Quality of race data

A number of studies have been conducted on the reliability of race reported on the death certifi cate by 

comparing race on the death certifi cate with that reported on another data collection instrument, such as 

the census or a survey. Differences may arise because of differences in who provides race information on the 

compared records. Race information on the death certifi cate is reported by the funeral director as provided by 

an informant or in the absence of an informant, on the basis of observation. In contrast, race on the census 

or on the Current Population Survey (CPS) is obtained while the individual is alive and is self-reported or 

reported by another member of the household familiar with the individual and, therefore, may be considered 

more valid. A high level of agreement between the death certifi cate and the census or survey report is 

essential to assure unbiased death rates by race. 

Results from several studies show that a person self-reported as American Indian or Asian on census 

or survey records was sometimes reported as white on the death certifi cate.24-26 The net effect of 

misclassifi cation is an underestimation of deaths and death rates for races other than white and black. In 

addition, undercoverage of minority groups in the census and resultant population estimates, introduces 

biases into death rates by race.27-29 Estimates of the approximate effect of the combined bias due to race 

misclassifi cation on death certifi cates and underenumeration on the 1990 census are as follows: white, -1.0 

percent; black, -5.0; American Indian, +20.6, Asian or Pacifi c Islander, +10.7.29

Other races and race not stated

All records coded as “Other races” (0.02 percent of the total deaths in 1997) were assigned to the specifi ed 

race of the previous record. Records for which race was unknown, not stated, or not classifi able (0.08 

percent) were assigned the racial designation of the previous record.

Ranking process - States were ranked in terms of their relative standing on each indicator shown in this 

chartbook. The ranks indicate how healthy a state’s women were, in general, compared to other states. Low 

numbers designate states that are healthier relative to other states, while high numbers denote states with 

less healthy populations. Because not all indicators are measured in the same direction, this ranking does not 

necessarily match higher or lower values for particular indicators. For example, states with high proportions of 

women who smoke would be given rankings of higher numbers, while states with high proportions of women who 

did not smoke during pregnancy would be given rankings with lower numbers.

When states were tied, the lower (or healthier) ranking was given to those states and the higher ranking was 

not used. For example, Vermont and Wyoming each have the same percentage of women reporting diagnosed 

high blood pressure. Three states had lower percentages of diagnosed high blood pressure than Vermont and 
104

Wyoming, so both states were given the ranking 4. The next highest percentage was found in Connecticut and 

that state was given the ranking 6 because a total of 5 states have lower percentages than Connecticut.

Map colors

Darker colors on the maps represent poorer relative health status. Lighter colors on maps represent better relative 

health status. Because not all indicators are measured in the same direction, the colors do not indicate higher 

or lower percentages or rates. For example, states with high proportions of women who smoke are shaded dark 

colors, while states with high proportions of women who did not smoke during pregnancy are shaded lighter colors.

Region - See Geographic region 

Relative standard error - The relative standard error (RSE) is a measure of an estimate’s reliability. The RSE 

of an estimate is obtained by dividing the standard error of the estimate (SE(r)) by the estimate itself (r). This 

quantity is expressed as a percent of the estimate and is calculated as follows: RSE=100 x (SE(r)/r). Estimates 

with large RSEs are considered unreliable and are not presented. For death and birth data, rates or proportions 

with a numerator of less than 20, which corresponds to an RSE of 23 percent are considered unreliable. For 

BRFSS, proportions with a RSE of > 30 percent are considered unreliable.

Routine check-up - BRFSS respondents are asked the question “About how long has it been since you last 

visited a doctor for a routine checkup?” The proportions shown are based on the respondents who answered 

“within the past year” or “within the past 2 years”. 

Smoking currently - Smoking status is calculated according to formulas developed by BRFSS staff. This 

calculation was based on respondents’ answers to a series of smoking questions. BRFSS respondents defi ned as 

‘current smokers’ have smoked at least 100 cigarettes in their entire life and smoke everyday or some days. 

Smoking during pregnancy - Whether or not tobacco was used during pregnancy is reported on the birth 

certifi cate in most states. California did not collect that information during the entire period, and South Dakota 

only began collecting tobacco use on their birth certifi cate starting in 2000. The areas reporting tobacco use 

comprised 87 percent of the U.S. births in 1999-2001. 

Standard of reliability or precision - see Relative standard error

Unknown values - All unknown values (persons coded as ‘‘refused,’’ ‘‘don’t know,’’ or ‘‘not ascertained’’) with 

respect to each variable of interest were removed from the denominators when calculating the proportions 

presented.
105

Appendix III: References

1 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Healthy People 2010. 2nd ed. Understanding and Improving 

Health and Objectives for Improving Health Health and Objectives for Improving Health. 2 vols. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Offi ce, . 2 vols. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, 

November 2000. Available at: http://www.healthypeople.gov/Document/tableofcontents.htm#volume1

2 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Steps to a HealthierUS Steps to a HealthierUS. See http://www.healthierus.gov/steps/ . See http://www.healthierus.gov/steps/

3 Corrao JM, Becker RC, Ockene IS, Hamilton GA. Coronary heart disease risk factors in women. Cardiology . Cardiology 

1990; 77(suppl 2): 2-24

4 Lawes CM, Bennett DA, Feigin VL, Rodgers A. Blood pressure and stroke: an overview of published reviews. 

Stroke. 2004; 35(3):776-85.

5 Stunkard AJ, Wadden TA. (Editors) Obesity: theory and therapy, Second Edition Obesity: theory and therapy, Second Edition. New York: Raven Press, 1993. . New York: Raven Press, 1993.

6 National Institutes of Health. Clinical guidelines on the identifi cation, evaluation, and treatment of overweight 

and obesity in adults and obesity in adults. Bethesda, Maryland: Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of . Bethesda, Maryland: Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of 

Health, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 1998.

7 American Heart Association. 2002 heart and stroke statistical update. Dallas, TX: American Heart Association, . Dallas, TX: American Heart Association, 

2001.

8 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National diabetes fact sheet: 2003. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department . Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department 

of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2003. Available at: http://www.

cdc.gov/diabetes/pubs/pdf/ndfs_2003.pdf

9 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The Surgeon General’s call to action to prevent and decrease 

overweight and obesity overweight and obesity. Rockville, MD: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health . Rockville, MD: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health 

Service, Offi ce of the Surgeon General; 2001. Available at: http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/topics/obesity/

calltoaction/CalltoAction.pdf

10 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Woman & Smoking - A Report of the Surgeon General. 

Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control 

and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Offi ce on Smoking 

and Health, 2001. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/sgr/sgr_forwomen/

11 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The Health Consequences of Smoking - A Report of the 

Surgeon General Surgeon General. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for . Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for 

Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Offi ce 

on Smoking and Health, 2004. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/sgr/sgr_2004/

12 National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. 10th special report to the U.S. Congress on alcohol and 

health. Bethesda, MD: US Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, National . Bethesda, MD: US Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, National 

Institutes of Health, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 2000. Available at: http://www.

niaaa.nih.gov/publications/10report/intro.pdf

13 Rolls BJ, Ello-Martin JA, Tohill BC. What can intervention studies tell us about the relationship between fruit and 

vegetable consumption and weight management? Nutr Rev. 2004; 62(1):1-17. Nutr Rev. 2004; 62(1):1-17.

14 Key TJ, Schatzkin A, Willett WC, Allen NE, Spencer EA, Travis RC. Diet, nutrition and the prevention of cancer. 

Public Health Nutr. 2004 Feb;7(1A):187-200.
106

15 National Institutes of Health. Third Report of the Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of 

High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (Adult Treatment Panel III) High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (Adult Treatment Panel III). Bethesda, MD: U.S. Department of Health . Bethesda, MD: U.S. Department of Health 

and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National 

Cholesterol Education Program, NIH Publication No. 02-5215 September 2002. Available at: http://www.

nhlbi.nih.gov/guidelines/cholesterol/atp_iii.htm

16 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Public Health Focus: Mammography Public Health Focus: Mammography. MMWR 1992; 41(25);454- . MMWR 1992; 41(25);454-

459.

17 Byers T, Levin B, Rothenberger D, Dodd GD, Smith RA. American Cancer Society guidelines for screening 

and surveillance for early detection of colorectal polyps and cancer: update 1997. American Cancer Society . American Cancer Society 

Detection and Treatment Advisory Group on Colorectal Cancer. CA Cancer J Clin. 1997; 47(3):154-60.

18 Kiely JL, Kogan MD. Prenatal Care enatal Care. In Wilcox LS, Marks JS, editors. . In Wilcox LS, Marks JS, editors. From Data to Action: CDC’s Public Health 

Surveillance for Women, Infants, and Children. Atlanta, GA: US Department of Health and Human Services, . Atlanta, GA: US Department of Health and Human Services, 

Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1994. p. 105-18. Available at: 

http://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/datoact/index.htm

19 National Women’s Health Information Center. Health Problems in American Indian/Alaskan Native Women: 

Suicide. 2003 Suicide. 2003. Available at: http://www.4woman.gov/minority/nasuicide.cfm . Available at: http://www.4woman.gov/minority/nasuicide.cfm

20 National Cancer Institute. A Report to Congress: The Northeast and Mid-Atlantic Breast Cancer Study. 2000.

Available at: http://epi.grants.cancer.gov/NEMA/Report0700.html#partI

21 Howard G, Howard VJ, Katholi C, Oli MK, Huston S. Decline in US stroke mortality: an analysis of temporal 

patterns by sex, race, and geographic region. Stroke 2001; 32(10):2213-20 . Stroke 2001; 32(10):2213-20

22 National Center for Health Statistics. Health, United States Health, United States. 2003. Hyattsville, Maryland: National Center for . 2003. Hyattsville, Maryland: National Center for 

Health Statistics. 2003. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/hus/hus03.pdf

23 Kotelchuck, M. An evaluation of the Kessner adequacy of prenatal care index and a proposed adequacy of 

prenatal care utilization index. American Journal of Public Health 84(9):1414-1420, 1994. . American Journal of Public Health 84(9):1414-1420, 1994.

24 Hambright TZ. Comparability of marital status, race, nativity, and country of origin on the death certifi cate and 

matching census record: United States, May-Aug 1960 matching census record: United States, May-Aug 1960. National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Health Stat . National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Health Stat 

2(32). 1969.

25 Sorlie PD, Rogot E, Johnson NJ. Validity of demographic characteristics on the death certifi cate. Epidemiology 

3(2):181-4. 1992.

26 Poe GS, Powell-Griner E, McLaughlin JK, et al. Comparability of the death certifi cate and the 1986 national 

mortality followback survey mortality followback survey. National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Health Stat 2(118). 1993. . National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Health Stat 2(118). 1993.

27 National Center for Health Statistics. Technical appendix. Vital statistics of the United States: mortality, 1995. 

Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/nchswww/about/major/dvs/mortdata.htm and to be included on the CDROM entitled, “Vital Statistics of the United States, Mortality, 1995.”

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1060. 1993.

29 Rosenberg HM, Maurer JD, Sorlie PD, et al. Quality of death rates by race and Hispanic origin: A summary of 

current research, 1999 current research, 1999. National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Health Stat 2(128). 1999. . National Center for Health Statistics. Vital Health Stat 2(128). 1999.
Offi ce on Women’s Health

Department of Health and Human Services

200 Independence Avenue, SW Room 730B

Washington, DC 20201

Telephone: (202) 690-7650

Fax: (202) 205-2631

•

National Center for Health Statistics

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

3311 Toledo Road, Room 5412

Hyattsville, MD 20782

Telephone: (301) 458-INFO

Fax: (301) 458-4027

•

The Lewin Group, Inc.

3130 Fairview Park Drive

Suite 800

Falls Church, VA 22042

Telephone: (703) 269-5500

Fax: (703) 269-5501
Healthy Women: State Trends in Health and Mortality data fi les may be downloaded data files may be downloaded 

from the NCHS website:

http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthywomen.htm

The complete data collection is also available on CD-ROM.

For more information on NCHS products, contact:

Data Dissemination Branch

National Center for Health Statistics

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

3311 Toledo Road, Room 5412

Hyattsville, Maryland 20782

Telephone: (301) 458-INFO

Fax: (301) 458-4027

DHHS Pub. No. 04-1032 (8/04)