While you likely think about your own health and your family's health often – have you ever considered the general health of the community you live in? What about the entire state?
There are health trends worth paying attention to so you can be proactive about prevention, identify topics you should talk to your kids about, and generally stay in the know about where you live, work, and play.
The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) recently released its 2022 State Health Assessment report, a tool that comprehensively assesses the state of health in Arizona. This is the most up-to-date information on all kinds of health-related statistics, conditions, and social determinants of health.
Big takeaways and available resources for all Arizonans:
1. 1 in 10 Arizonans are living with diabetes and an estimated 1 in 3 have pre-diabetes. American Indian/Alaska Natives in Arizona are disproportionately burdened with over 1 in 5 reported as having ever lived with diabetes in 2021.
- Visit our AZ Blue diabetes website to learn how to prevent, screen for, and manage diabetes.
- Join a Project Power program in Arizona. The American Diabetes Association’s Project Power initiative has free programs for youth and adults to help prevent or manage type 2 diabetes. The program includes 1:1 coaching, nutrition education, and so much more.
2. Suicide mortality rates have increased in Arizona. Rural Arizonans died by suicide at increasingly higher rates, nearly two-fold greater, than their urban counterparts. Males living in rural areas experienced the highest rate of suicide death.
- Call or text 988 if you or someone you love is in crisis. 988 is the three-digit, nationwide phone number to connect directly with counselors. These services are free and available 24/7. You can also call the Arizona Crisis Line (English/Español) at 1-844-534-4673 or text 44673.
3. In 2021, 1 in 3 deaths in older Arizonans was due to heart disease. Heart disease is Arizona's 3rd leading cause of death among adults 45-64 years.
- Click here to learn how to prevent or manage heart problems – including exercising and getting enough sleep.
From youth mental health and tribal health to the impact of COVID-19 on Arizona’s health – the report covers A LOT of bases. We encourage you to stay fully informed on the health of our state!
Read the full report here: arizona-state-health-assessment-2022.pdf (azdhs.gov)
This information is provided for educational purposes only. Individuals should always consult with their healthcare providers regarding medical care or treatment, as recommendations, services or resources are not a substitute for the advice or recommendation of an individual's physician or healthcare provider. Services or treatment options may not be covered under an individual's particular health plan.