Out of 62 counties making up the state of New York, Schenectady County ranks 55th in overall health. Saratoga County, though, nearly tops that list at No. 2. That means that on average, people living in Saratoga lead longer, better lives.
There is a long list of health factors that determine quality and length of life, including smoking habits, obesity, poverty rates, access to food and education. In terms of health behaviors, Saratoga and Schenectady County residents actually have the same percentage of smokers and obese adults.
Schenectady County has more exercise opportunities, and people are more physically active. Saratoga County ranks higher, though, because of access to education, a lower unemployment rate, lower childhood poverty rate and a lower percentage of uninsured people.
This year's report also shows that gaps in opportunity exist not only by location, but also among racial and ethnic groups. It found that, in the Capital Region, African-American children are more likely to begin their lived in poverty, making it harder to live a long and healthy life.
Experts hope local leaders will use this study to take a closer look at the shortfalls specific to their counties and focus efforts in those areas to improve health outcomes for all New Yorkers.
Other rankings:
- Rockland - 1st
- Warren - 10th
- Columbia - 20th
- Albany - 26th
- Washington - 27th
- Rensselaer - 37th
- Fulton - 50th
