Idaho ranks 12th in national health report

Greater earning potential isn't the only incentive for getting a college degree in Idaho. A longer, healthier life is another possible positive side effect.

Idaho ranks 12th in the nation in overall health according to the most recent America's Health Rankings report by the United Health Foundation. The report by the Minnesota-based nonprofit provided rankings by state for several health disorders and behavioral risk factors that may contribute to them. Data is listed for levels of obesity, smoking, diabetes, and physical inactivity adults 25 and older.

Idaho adults with college degrees reported being healthier across the board, in contrast to those with less than a high school level degree. For example, 27 percent of Idaho adults without high school degrees report being smokers, versus 4 percent for college graduates.

"An important benefit of a college education that many folks don't think about is just having access to better health information," said Tom Greene, spokesman for North Idaho College. "That exposure can lead to healthier decisions about eating, exercise, and other lifestyle choices."

The contrast in physical activity is more stark, with 39 percent of those who did not attain a high school level degree reporting being physically inactive versus 14 percent for college degree holders.

Of the adult population in Idaho age 25 and older, 26 percent hold a college degree, according to the National Center for Education Statistics in Washington, D.C.

The rankings report cited obesity levels, with 34 percent of Idaho adults without a high school degree considered obese, in contrast to 25 percent for college graduates.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, physically active people generally live longer and have a lower risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression and some cancers.