Oklahoma Improves Overall Health Ranking To 43rd Place

Oklahoma is moving on up in America's Health Rankings released Tuesday by the United Health Foundation. Oklahoma's ranking has ranged from 46th to 49th in recent years.

In 2012, the state is the 43rd healthiest.

According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, indicators that helped raise Oklahoma's ranking include:

• Improvements in the infant mortality rate
• Up-to-date immunization coverage for children 19 to 35 months
• Low incidence of infectious disease cases
• Fewer people without health insurance
• A lower percentage of children under 18 living in poverty

"This year's report marks a significant and dramatic improvement that we don't take lightly," said State Health Commissioner Dr. Terry Cline.

"We recognize and support opportunities occurring within communities, businesses, organizations, faith-based groups and others in the private sector that help make the healthy choice the easy choice and ultimately improve the health status of all Oklahomans."

What are the health challenges that continue to keep Oklahoma from improving its ranking?

• Smoking
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Limited availability or primary care physicians
• High rate of cardiovascular disease deaths

Learn more about state health rankings.