Data & Reports: Health Disparities
his report contains data regarding three prominent health disparities found within Asotin County. Publishing these disparities is not intended for information purposes only. It is an intentional endeavor to inform the public of ongoing efforts among government and private entities to educate fellow citizens and treat the health of our community. These efforts include joining with community partners (such as those in the social, legal, recreational, educational and health professions), forming new task forces, offering new forms of media for help (such as updated websites, 24-hour emergency phone numbers), increasing public education and awareness, and providing greater access to health care (such as mobile dental vans). We at the Asotin County Health District believe these goals will be accomplished and improved with the awareness and support of our community. Please check our web site regularly to find updates and information.
Smoking in Pregnancy
As the accompanying chart reveals, about 3 times more women smoke during pregnancy than the state average. About 60 infants are born each year in Asotin County to mothers who smoke during pregnancy. The following data reveals risk factors to the infants due to smoking in pregnancy, as well as risk factors which have been linked to increasing tobacco use in women.
*Source: WA State Department of Health, Tobacco Prevention and Control Assessment and Evaluation, 2005 and Birth Certificates from 2001-2005.
*Source WA State Vital Statistics, 2005.
*Source: WA State Vital Statistics, 2005.
Risk Factors Contributing to Tobacco Use Among Pregnant Women
*Source: WA State Vital Statistics, 2005.
*Source: WA State Vital Statistics, 2005.
*Source: County Profiles: Birth and Unintended Pregnancy Stats., April 2004
*Source: WA State Vital Statistics, 2005.
Obesity
The accompanying chart reveals Asotin Couty statistics are nearly the same as state-wide data. This is not to be read as encouraging. These high rates reveal obesity is striking the health of millions. Obesity has been linked to chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, which can lead to lessened quality of life and premature death.
Adult
*Source: Asotin County Diabetes Report 2007, WA State DOH.
*Source: Asotin County Diabetes Report 2007, WA State DOH.
Common Results and Causes of Obesity
*Source: Asotin County Diabetes Report 2007, WA State DOH.
*Source: Asotin County Diabetes Report 2007, WA State DOH.
*Source: Asotin County Diabetes Report 2007, WA State DOH.
An Aging Population
The population of Asotin County is getting older. This fact in itself is not a problem, but it does lead to community health concerns. Many seniors who live on Medicare are finding it difficult to secure a primary care physician. Many with chronic conditions are having difficulty finding a medical home and medications. Because of this low access to care for Medicare and Medicaid patients, Asotin County has been designated a Primary Care Health Professional Shortage Area. As well, many find difficulty securing a dentist and mental health professional, so the county has also received designation as a Dental Care Health Professional Shortage Area and a Mental Care Health Professional Area. There is no county health clinic, so patients must travel out of the area for treatment of specialized and communicable diseases. Therefore, Asotin County has also been designated a Medically Underserved Area. These realities, combined with the poverty status of those aged 60 and over, cause seniors to face unneeded obstacles.
*Source: WA State OFM Forecasting Division, 11/22/06.
*Source: U.S. Census, 2000.