Amidst Missouri’s peaceful scenery and bustling metropolitan life, a worrisome fact emerges: Kansas City has the largest concentration of sick people in the state. While the city’s lively culture and booming economy may cover this dismal statistic, it is a critical issue that must be addressed.
From chronic illnesses to infectious diseases, the health issues that Kansas City residents face highlight the necessity of access to quality healthcare, preventative measures, and community support networks.
In this post, we will look at the variables that contribute to the healthcare inequality and potential ways to improve the health of the Kansas City community.
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The Misery City of Missouri: Kansas City
This extensive study evaluated 35 critical health factors to measure the health of all 50 states, including smoking, obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, air pollution, immunization rates, and healthcare accessibility. Overall, Kansas finished 31st, with Missouri 39th. Using 23 health-related parameters, the study provided full rankings for metropolitan regions within each state.
When compared against the other six metro regions in Missouri and all seven metro areas in Kansas, Kansas City, MO-KS ranked bottom. When compared to comparable metro areas in both states, the research found disturbing health data for Kansas City. These statistics reflect the greatest rates of smoking, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular and cancer-related deaths, and infant mortality.
In addition, the city has the lowest percentage of adults with continuous access to healthcare, as well as the lowest immunization rates for both children and seniors.
Opportunities Consequences
Several social and economic factors contribute to the city’s worrisome health outcomes. Racism, inequality, poverty, and a lack of education have all played major roles. According to 2019 US Census Bureau data, Kansas City’s poverty rate was 16.3%, higher than the state average of 13.2% and the national average of 10.5%.
- The city’s median household income was $54,372, which was less than the state average of $57,409 and the national average of $62,843. Kansas City has a higher percentage of black residents (29.9%) than the state (11.8%) or the country (13.4%). As a result of these disparities, these groups usually suffer increased prejudice and difficulty accessing necessary social and medical assistance.
- Air pollution, a lack of exercise, bad eating habits, and drug usage were all serious behavioral and environmental concerns. According to the American Lung Association’s 2020 State of the Air report, Kansas City ranked 25th among the most polluted cities for ozone levels.
- Ozone levels exacerbate respiratory issues such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Particulate pollution, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and lung cancer, was also ranked 47th in the city.
Another issue was the predominance of poor lifestyle choices; for example, just 22.9% of Kansas City residents exercise regularly, 10.7% consume the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables each day, and 20.5% smoke cigarettes daily.
Possible Strategy of Approach
To address health disparities in Kansas City, the government, healthcare providers, community groups, businesses, schools, and individuals must all collaborate in a holistic effort. Here are a few suggested approaches to addressing these challenges:
- The extension of low-cost, high-quality healthcare options, with an emphasis on those without insurance or with insufficient coverage.
- A higher share of the money should be allocated to public health efforts that attempt to reduce health disparities by addressing socioeconomic determinants of health.
- Promoting healthy living choices through legislation reforms, public awareness campaigns, financial incentives, and classroom instruction.
- Environmental health can be improved by expanding green spaces, reducing air pollution, and improving water quality.
- Enhancing health-related initiatives and decision-making by encouraging civic engagement and community participation.
Read more:
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Kansas City’s worrisome health statistics highlight the critical need for comprehensive action. Addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and environmental concerns necessitates collaboration among government, healthcare providers, and community organizations. By prioritizing access to quality healthcare, encouraging healthy habits, and addressing socioeconomic determinants, we can work toward a healthier future for Kansas City people.
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