JAMANetwork – free access to fulltext PDF – The State of US Health, 1990-2016 Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Among US States

“Question  How have the levels and trends of burden of diseases, injuries, and risk factors in the United States changed from 1990 to 2016 by state?

Findings  This study, involving examination of 333 causes and 84 risk factors, demonstrated that health in the United States improved from 1990 to 2016, although the drivers of mortality and morbidity have changed in some states, with specific risk factors such as drug use disorders, high body mass index (BMI), and alcohol use disorders being associated with adverse outcomes. In 5 states, the probability of death between ages 20 and 55 years has increased more than 10% between 1990 and 2016.

Meaning  Differences in health outcomes and drivers of morbidity and mortality at the state level indicate the need for greater investment in preventive and medical care across the life course. The intersection of risk, mortality, and morbidity in particular geographic areas needs to be further explored at the state level…”