Overview

United Health Foundation: Americas Health Rankings 2007

Louisiana ranks 49th in the nation in overall health. This placement reflects the current unprecedented public health concerns of the Greater New Orleans region in the wake of the devastation caused by the storms of 2005. As a public health institute, we believe that at least 50 percent of a communitys health status is determined by lifestyle choices, and we are dedicated to improving the state of health in Louisiana by fulfilling the three roles of public health:

• Monitor health status to identify and solve community health problems.

• Develop policies and plans that support individual and community health efforts.

• Assure a competent public and personal health care workforce.

The major health-related challenges Louisiana faces are heart disease, obesity, tobacco use, infant mortality, and disparities.