Colorado still the least obese state

Colorado is the eighth healthiest state according to United Health Foundation’s annual health rankings, released today. The index ranks Colorado as the least obese state, No. 1 in physicial activity and lowest in diabetes prevalence.

Colorado ranked second lowest in cardiovascular deaths and third lowest in cancer deaths. 

Colorado, however, saw a 256 percent increase in whooping cough, or pertussis, cases. In October 2012, the state health department declared a pertussis outbreak when Colorado surpassed 1,000 cases. As of Nov. 15, 2014 the state has 1,161 pertussis cases. Vaccination is the safest and most effective tool against pertussis.

Each year United Health Foundation analyzes behaviors, public and health policies, community and environmental conditions, and clinical care data to provide its annual health rankings.