Maine’s Health Crisis: Study Identifies It as New England’s Most Unhealthy State

Hey Maine, we need to talk.

Our state has been named the unhealthiest state in the region, according to a new report. Not great, Bob.

The website wordlpopulationreview.com posted its latest health data of every state in America. Sadly, the Pine Tree State was absolutely smoked by the rest of New England. I mean, it wasn't even close.

Maine's total health score was 49.65, which placed them as the 21st unhealthiest state. The score is based on 21 metrics that the site uses. The lower the score, the better. For example, Hawaii is ranked as the healthiest state, with an incredible score of 0.

What's even worse is how bad Maine compares to the rest of New England, a region that prides itself on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Here is a look at the rest of the region.

Massachusetts - 5th healthiest
Connecticut - 8th healthiest
Vermont - 13th healthiest
New Hampshire - 15th healthiest
Rhode Island - 16th healthiest

Maine metrics are just rough. The state ranks a brutal 9th in the disease prevalence & mortality rate. This category includes rates of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and kidney disease.

The state managed a little better ranking in substance abuse issues. Maine came in as the 12th most affected state from this category that includes heavy drinking and illicit drug use.

Maine's best ranking came in lifestyle habits & healthy outlook, with a 22 ranking. While this may be the best score, it's still quite bad, and far away for our New England brethren.

This is absolutely a dreadful report for Mainers. There's basically nothing positive to grasp onto here. So instead, let's talk about some things we could do to improve these numbers.

Here are a few suggestions.

• Stop Smoking Cigarettes: It's not 1950 anymore. Doctors aren't prescribing the things.
• Stop Vaping: It's not healthier.
• Mix in Some Vegetables and Avoid Processed Foods: I love junk food too. It's the best. But a carrot stick will do a lot more for you than a bread stick.
• Exercise, Exercise, Exercise: Nothing is better for your physical and mental health than getting that blood pumping. Even if it means just taking a nice walk. Any activity will help.

We can do this, Maine. Let's all make a pact to go and chase down our New England brothers and sisters and prove we can be healthier than them.

Happy heath to one and all, especially through the holiday season.