Dean Wykoff Provides Annual Update on Tennessee's Health Status

Dean Randy Wykoff was invited to testify before the Senate Health and Welfare Committee regarding the health of Tennessee citizens. This is the fifth year that the Committee has invited Dr. Wykoff to appear at the beginning of the legislative session, and provide an update on the health status of the State.  Wykoff said Tennessee ranks 43rd in overall health according to the United Health Foundation, which is up only slightly from 45th last year. He said that unhealthy behaviors are a key factor in the state's low health ranking. 

Wykoff explained that, of the five primary causes leading to early death, unhealthy behaviors accounts for 40 percent.  Unhealthy behaviors, he said, lead to health outcomes like diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer. Tennessee ranks 48th in diabetes, 44th in cardiovascular deaths, and 44th in cancer deaths. To improve health, Tennesseans must work together to change behaviors, particularly tobacco, obesity/physical inactivity, and substance abuse. Jobs and education play important roles in health as well. 

The Committee is chaired by Senator Rusty Crowe, who has served in the Senate for 25 years, representing District 3 - Washington, Unicoi and Carter Counties. He has frequently been recognized as the legislator of the year by various organizations and agencies. A video of the Committee’s meeting has been posted; Dr. Wykoff’s presentation begins at 3:05.