Take a Look at This!

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Read the following press release for some very interesting data from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Virginia Commonwealth University:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 8, 2016

 

Contacts:

Sarah Simon, sarah.simon@vcuhealth.org, 804-628-4786

Sara Knoll, sknoll@burness.com, 301-280-5709

 

Babies Born Just Miles Apart in El Paso Face Up to 13-Year Difference in Life Expectancy

New Map Aims to Raise Awareness of Factors that Shape Health and Spur Action

A life expectancy map released today by researchers at the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Center on Society and Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) illustrates that opportunities to lead a long and healthy life can vary dramatically by neighborhood. Babies born in the Fort Bliss area (ZIP code 79906) can expect to live 10 years shorter than babies born in the ZIP code right next door, 79925, while the difference between Fort Bliss and Anthony (ZIP code 79821) is 13 years.

(Note:  Although ZIP code 79906 is considered Fort Bliss, about 43% of the total population age 16 and over is are employed by the military, according to Census data. Access additional life expectancy data in the El Paso area here.)

   

Health differences between neighborhoods are rarely due to a single cause. A growing body of research shows that a complex web of factors influences health—opportunities for education and jobs, safe and affordable housing, availability of nutritious food and places for physical activity, clean air, and access to health care, child care, and social services.   

 

“The health differences shown in these maps aren’t unique to one area. We see them in big cities, small towns, and rural areas across America,” said Derek Chapman, Ph.D., associate director for research, VCU Center on Society and Health.