Oklahoma's Health Ranking Improves

NewsOn6.com

TULSA, Oklahoma – Oklahoma moved up in the rankings in 2010 when it comes to state health, the UnitedHealth Foundation said Wednesday.

According to the foundation's annual report, Oklahoma ranks 46th in the nation in overall health, up from 49th in 2009.

"We are pleased that focused efforts throughout the state to improve the health of Oklahomans have resulted in an improved health status ranking," said State Health Commissioner Dr. Terry Cline. "What this really means is lives have been saved and the quality of life for many of our families, friends and coworkers is better."

The report is based on indicators concerning personal behaviors, public health policies, community and environmental influences, clinical care, and economic factors.

"Preliminary review indicates that our improved score was due to high immunization coverage, with more than 90 percent of children ages 19 to 35 months immunized, and a low prevalence of binge drinking in the population," Cline said.

More than 30 percent of adults in Oklahoma are obese.