Report sheds light on Kentucky health trends, medical expert comments

KENTUCKY – A recently released report is exploring national ranks regarding the health of Kentucky’s women and children.

The United Health Foundation’s 2024 America’s Health Rankings – Health of Women and Children Report states that it ranks Kentucky 44th for women and children living in poverty compared to other states.

In addition, the report states Kentucky has a high prevalence of chronic conditions among women, and about 40% of Kentucky children do not have access to sufficient food.

“The United Health Foundation’s America’s Health Rankings underscores how important the social drivers of health are to the well-being of our communities and helps us take a proactive and preventive approach to health,” said Dr. Lisa Saul, national medical director of maternal child health, UnitedHealthcare. “Through this holistic approach, we can address health challenges our women and children face before they worsen and ensure a healthier future for our nation.”

The report also states Kentucky has a high mortality rate of women ages 20 to 44, with a state rank of 48.

However, the report also highlights some positives, stating:

• Kentucky has a low prevalence of asthma among children.
• Kentucky has a low prevalence of high-risk HIV behaviors among women.
• Kentucky has a low housing cost burden among households with children. In particular, the report ranks Kentucky at a state value of 23.6%, while the U.S. value is ranked at 30.6%.
• The number of uninsured women ages 19 to 44 dropped 20% between 2019 and 2022.

The report also covers maternal mortality rate, tobacco use and multiple other health trends affecting women and children in Kentucky, offering an overall state profile that could be reflected in communities.

To view the full report, click here.