High Health Status - Women in United States

United States

Self-reported health status measures how individuals perceive their health. It is a subjective measure of health-related quality of life that is not limited to specific health conditions or outcomes, but also factors in social support, ability and ease of functioning, and other socioeconomic, environmental and cultural components. This measure is used by the United States Department of Health and Human Services to evaluate progress toward achieving Healthy People 2030 objectives.

Research shows that those with “poor” self-reported health status have a mortality risk double that of those with ”excellent” self-reported health status. The association between health status and mortality makes this measure a good predictor of future mortality rates.

According to America’s Health Rankings analysis, the prevalence of women ages 18-44 who report “very good” or “excellent” health is higher among:

• White and Asian women compared with American Indian/Alaska Native and Hispanic women.
• College graduates.
• Women with an annual household income of $150,000 or more compared with those who have lower incomes. The prevalence of high health status increases significantly with each increase in household income level.
• Women without a disability compared with those with a disability, particularly those who have difficulty with self-care.
• Straight women compared with LGBQ+ women.

Increased investments in women’s health research may help advance understanding of the biological, behavioral and social factors that influence health outcomes. Historically, women have been overlooked in research studies and clinical trials, which has hindered the identification of sex differences and slowed progress for women’s health research and clinical practice. In addition to enhancing quality of life, improving women’s health outcomes can reduce health care expenditures and decrease dependence on caregivers. 

More years of schooling are associated with better self-reported health status. The connection between education and health is well-documented — higher educational attainment is associated with higher earnings and fewer chronic conditions. Access to economic resources, as well as jobs with healthier working conditions and benefits, is also associated with better health status.

The Community Preventive Services Task Force recommends implementing high-quality, center-based early childhood education programs to improve health. These programs promote health equity and narrow the educational achievement gap, especially for children in low-income or racial and ethnic minority communities. 

Chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease are leading causes of death in the U.S., affecting 3 in 4 American adults. Many chronic diseases can be prevented by eating well, staying physically active, avoiding tobacco use and excessive drinking, and getting regular health screenings. The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion has a web page on strategies for healthy living that covers safety, nutrition, physical activity, mental health and sexual health.

Mental health is essential to overall wellness. Research has found a strong connection between social support and health outcomes. Poor social support is associated with alcohol use, depression and cardiovascular disease, while strong social support helps individuals cope with stress and stay motivated to achieve their goals. Therefore, policies and interventions aimed at promoting social ties and reducing social isolation could advance population health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers various community-based approaches to enhance social connections.

Health status is an overall measure of health and well-being used by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to summarize and gauge progress toward achieving the Healthy People 2030 objectives.

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