The Journal of the American Medical Association published its State of U.S. Health Study 1990-2016 on April 10, and Washington state ranked 9 out of 50 states for life expectancy at birth for both sexes combined.
“This study showed that Washington state has made progress in reducing mortality; however, alcohol and drug abuse, obesity, and tobacco use continue to pose health challenges in our communities,” said Dr. Kathy Lofy, State Health Officer, Washington State Department of Health.
LIFE EXPECTANCY AT BIRTH, BOTH SEXES
| 1990 | Rank | 2016 | Rank |
| 76.8 years | 13 | 80.2 years | 9 |
LIFE EXPECTANCY AT BIRTH, MALE
| 1990 | Rank | 2016 | Rank |
| 73.8 years | 8 | 78.1 years | 7 |
LIFE EXPECTANCY AT BIRTH, FEMALE
| 1990 | Rank | 2016 | Rank |
| 79.8 years | 14 | 82.3 years | 10 |
The study listed the top three leading risks factors for disability-adjusted life-years in Washington state during 2016 as alcohol and drug abuse, high body mass index (BMI), and tobacco use.
Hawaii had the highest life expectancy in 2016 (81.3 years) while Mississippi had the lowest (74.7 years). Other states with high life expectancy were California (80.9 years), Connecticut (80.8 years), and Minnesota (80.8 years).
The State Health Assessment provides a snapshot of the overall health and well-being of Washingtonians.
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