Hawaii deemed healthiest state in nation

Hawaii ranked first for health on United Health Foundation’s 2016 America’s Health Rankings.

“The department is pleased with Hawaii’s top ranking which reflects our state’s focus on maintaining healthy lifestyles and protecting our environment,” Hawaii Department of Health Director Dr. Virginia Pressler said in the state’s announcement. But Pressler said some groups don’t enjoy the same level of health as others.

The report notes a 4 percent drop in drug-related deaths, a 38 percent rise in vaccination against human papilloma virus among girls 13 to 17, only 23 percent obesity compared to 30 percent nationally and only 5 percent without health insurance compared to 10 percent nationally.

Diabetes, though, rose to an estimated 54 percent of people in Hawaii, although many have never been diagnosed.