BENTON/FRANKLIN COUNTIES, Wash., -- Obesity and access to health services top the list of priorities for improving health in Benton and Franklin counties. These and other leading issues of concern were identified through the Community Health Needs Assessment project started in July 2011.
National polls confirm obesity is a significant problem in Benton and Franklin counties. A recent Gallup Poll report indicates the Kennewick, Richland, Pasco Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) has the 9th highest obesity rate among MSA's in the United States at 31%. This is cause for concern due to the correlation between obesity and chronic disease, quality of life and lifelong wellness.
Access to prenatal care in the first trimester and rates of obesity are among the areas where Benton and Franklin Counties have not met Healthy People 2020 goals, or lag behind Washington state averages. The Community Health Needs survey confirmed these as "Top Related Health Issues" for local citizens as well.
Across all income levels, affordability of healthcare, lack of, or inadequate health insurance, and obesity received the most votes.
