2014 State Of The County Health Report (SOTCH).pdf

Graham County's 2014 State of the County Health Report provides an update on the county's health status and progress made in addressing priority health issues. The report highlights local demographics, health indicators, and priority issues affecting the community. Key findings include:

Graham County has a population of 8,861, with a higher percentage of persons 65 years and older (19.7%) compared to Western North Carolina (19.0%) and the state of North Carolina (12.9%).
The leading causes of death in Graham County from 2008-2012 were heart disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory disease, unintentional injuries, and cerebrovascular disease.
Mortality rates for heart disease, chronic lower respiratory disease, and all other unintentional injuries exceed comparable rates for North Carolina.
The report tracks progress on priority issues, including obesity and diabetes, with goals to establish policies and programs supporting physical activity and healthy eating.
Data review shows adult diagnosed diabetes prevalence estimates ranged from 9.1% to 10.1% in Graham County from 2007-2011, while adult obesity prevalence estimates ranged from 28.2% to 30.0%.
Childhood obesity prevalence rates were higher in Graham County compared to Western North Carolina and the state, with 15.2% of children ages 2-4 and 13.7% of children ages 5-11 being obese.
* Access to healthcare is a priority issue, with a goal to provide residents with access to primary care medical homes and quality, affordable care. Progress towards this goal includes collaboration between health departments and medical missions.