Health and wellness indicators skyrocketed for Allen County in 2018, according to Tuesdays release of the County Health Rankings and Roadmaps, a national study.
Of Kansas 105 counties, Allen went from 84th to 38th in terms of health outcomes; and from 89th to 29th for indicators that influence ones length of life.
Two things show were on the right track: For the past seven years, the number of children in poverty in Allen County has decreased from 28 to 23 percent. Yes, thats still more than double the state average and a third again higher than the national average of 15 percent. But because the study takes into account trends, the incremental decrease is a positive sign.
Second, the rate of infections from sexually transmitted diseases continues to be way below state and national averages and were getting better at getting vaccinated against the flu, though still below state and national averages.
A high rate of obesity continues to keep many of us from leading healthy lives. A full 38 percent of adults in Allen County are considered dangerously overweight. State average is 26 percent; national is 33 percent.
So its no surprise that we rank low in terms of physical activity. Compared to our peers, 28 percent of Allen Countians dont get enough exercise, while the state average of couch potatoes is 19 percent and national is 24 percent.
Median income for Allen County households is listed at $43,000, almost one-third less than the state average of $67,100. The national average is $56,400.
Almost 60 percent of our children are eligible for free or reduced-priced lunches at their schools. The state average is 32 percent; national is 48 percent.
Home ownership is higher here, with 72 percent owning homes, compared to the state average of 61 percent and a national average of 66 percent.
Of those who own homes in Allen County, 8 percent spend more than half of their incomes on housing, which aligns closely with the state and national averages.
THE POSITIVE take-away from all these sobering statistics is our incremental progress. In almost every category, our outcomes are improving.
With that pat on the back, 10 jumping jacks, please.
Susan Lynn
