Vermonters more physically active, test more for cancer than previous year
By VDC staff
Vermont ranks third nationwide in the 2025 America’s Health Rankings Annual Report, continuing the state’s strong showing in one of the longest-running, state-by-state assessments of health and well-being in the United States.
The report, released by the United Health Foundation, is in its 36th edition and evaluates states across 99 health measures. The rankings are designed to give policymakers, health providers and community leaders a roadmap to identify successes, gaps and opportunities for improvement.
According to the report, Vermont made notable progress in several areas over the past few years. Cancer screenings among adults ages 40 to 75 increased 26% between 2022 and 2024. Physical inactivity among adults fell 21% between 2023 and 2024, contributing to national gains that placed physical activity at its healthiest level since tracking began.
At the same time, the report highlights ongoing challenges for the Green Mountain State.
Depression among adults increased 19% between 2019 and 2024. Excessive drinking remains prevalent, affecting an estimated 18.7% of Vermont adults, a rate that continues to concern public health officials.
Nationally, the report shows a mix of improvement and emerging pressures. Premature deaths declined 8% between 2022 and 2023, while drug-related deaths fell 3% over the same period — the first national improvement since 2018. Cancer screenings rose 15% nationwide between 2022 and 2024.
However, adults living with three or more chronic conditions increased 6% between 2023 and 2024, with the largest jump — 17% — among adults ages 18 to 44.
Homelessness increased 16% nationally during that period, and the number of people avoiding medical care due to cost rose 8%.
United Health Foundation officials said the data underscore the importance of targeted, evidence-based strategies to build on recent gains while addressing worsening trends in mental health, substance use and access to care.
The full 2025 America’s Health Rankings Annual Report is available at americashealthrankings.org.