A new study published by the United Health Foundation, the American Public Health Association and the Partnership for Prevention says Hawaii has the best health in the nation. Among the highlights: 

• Fewer people in Hawaii are lighting up, with smoking prevalence decreasing to 14.6 percent of adults from 16.8 percent a year ago.

• Violent crime decreased from 287 offenses per 100,000 people, to 239 offenses per 100,000 people in the past year.

• The state boasts the country’s lowest rate of preventable hospitalizations.

• Infant mortality decreased in the last year to 6.9 deaths for every 1,000 live births, from 7.7 deaths for every 1,000 live births. 

On the down side, however, the state does have a high prevalence of binge drinking, as well as a low high school graduation rate. Vermont and Minnesota finished second and third, respectively, with Mississippi finishing last.

Photo: Health map. (United Health Foundation)

—Chad Blair