Georgia behavioral risk factor surveillance system 2011 report

1

Acknowledgements

Georgia Department of Public Health
Health Protection
Epidemiology Program
Chronic Disease, Healthy Behaviors and Injury Epidemiology Section Healthy Behavior Team

Brenda Fitzgerald, MD Commissioner, State Health Officer
J. Patrick O'Neal, MD Director
Cherie L. Drenzek, DVM, MS State Epidemiologist
Rana Bayakly, MPH Chief Epidemiologist
Francis Annor, MPH

The Georgia Department of Public Health is grateful for the support and contribution of:
Abt SRBI Inc. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Residents of Georgia who agreed to participate in the survey
For more information about the Georgia Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, please contact:
BRFSS Coordinator Chronic Disease, Healthy Behaviors and Injury Epidemiology Section Epidemiology Program Division of Health Protection Georgia Department of Public Health 2 Peachtree Street, 14th Floor Atlanta, GA 30303-3142 GA-BRFSS@dhr.state.ga.us
This report was made possible with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Grant # 5U58O000021-03). Its contents do not necessarily represent the official view of the CDC.
Suggested citation: Annor FB, Bayakly RA, Vajani M. 2011 Georgia Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Report. Georgia Department of Public Health Epidemiology Program. Chronic Disease, Healthy Behaviors and Injury Epidemiology Section. December 2012. Publication number xxxxxxxxxx

2

Georgia Public Health Districts

Dade Catoosa

Fannin

Whitfield Murray

Towns Union

Rabun

Walker Chattooga

Gordon

UGilmer
1-2 Pickens

UWhite Habersham

Lumpkin 2

Stephens

U1-1

Floyd

Bartow

Dawson Cherokee Forsyth

Hall Banks Franklin Hart

Jackson Madison Elbert

Polk Cobb
U Paulding U U 3-1

Gwinnett 3-4 Barrow

Clarke 10 Oglethorpe

Haralson
UUU Carroll

Douglas 3-2 Fulton

3-5

Walton

DeKalbRockdale

3-3 Clayton Newton

Oconee Morgan

Greene

Wilkes Taliaferro

Lincoln Columbia

Fayette

Henry

McDuffie

Coweta Heard
U4
Troup Meriwether

Warren

Spalding Butts Jasper Putnam

Hancock

Richmond

Pike Lamar Monroe

Baldwin
U Jones 5-2

Glascock

U6

Jefferson Washington

Burke

Upson

Harris

Talbot

Bibb

Wilkinson

Crawford

Twiggs

Johnson

Jenkins

1-1 Northwest (Rome) 1-2 North Georgia (Dalton) 2 North (Gainesville) 3-1 Cobb-Douglas 3-2 Fulton 3-3 Clayton (Jonesboro) 3-4 East Metro (Lawrenceville) 3-5 DeKalb 4 LaGrange 5-1 South Central (Dublin) 5-2 North Central (Macon) 6 East Central (Augusta) 7 West Central (Columbus) 8-1 South (Valdosta) 8-2 Southwest (Albany) 9-1 Coastal (Savannah) 9-2 Southeast (Waycross) 10 Northeast (Athens)
Screven

Muscogee

Taylor

Peach

Emanuel

U7
Chattahoochee Marion Schley

Macon

Houston Bleckley

Laurens

Pulaski

U5-1

Treutlen

Candler Bulloch

Stewart Webster Sumter

Dooly

Dodge

Montgomery

Wheeler

Toombs

Evans

Tattnall

Quitman

Wilcox Crisp

Telfair

Effingham Bryan Chatham

Randolph Terrell Lee

Turner

Ben Hill

Jeff Davis Appling

Liberty
U Long 9-1

Clay Calhoun

Dougherty

Worth

Irwin

Tift

Coffee

U Bacon 9-2

Wayne

McIntosh

Early

U Baker 8-2

Miller

Mitchell

Colquitt

UBerrien
Cook 8-1

Atkinson

Seminole Decatur

Grady Thomas Brooks

Lanier Lowndes

Clinch

Pierce Brantley

Glynn

Ware

Charlton

Camden

Echols

3

Table of Contents
Acknowledgements .................................................................................................................................... 2 Georgia Public Health Districts.................................................................................................................. 3 BRFSS Methodology ................................................................................................................................. 5 Summary of Results ................................................................................................................................... 6 Demographic Characteristics, State of Georgia ......................................................................................... 7 Health Status Indicators
General Health .............................................................................................................................. 8 No Health Care Coverage ............................................................................................................. 9 Limited Health Care Access........................................................................................................ 10 No Annual Doctor's Visit ........................................................................................................... 11 Disability ..................................................................................................................................... 12 Chronic Conditions Asthma ........................................................................................................................................ 13 Diabetes....................................................................................................................................... 14 Heart Attack ................................................................................................................................ 15 Stroke .......................................................................................................................................... 16 Angina ......................................................................................................................................... 17 Obesity ........................................................................................................................................ 18 Overweight.................................................................................................................................. 19 Risk Behaviors Adequate Physical Activity......................................................................................................... 20 No Leisure-Time Physical Activity............................................................................................. 21 Seatbelt Use................................................................................................................................. 22 Smoking ...................................................................................................................................... 23 Smokeless Tobacco..................................................................................................................... 24 Binge Drinking............................................................................................................................ 25 Heavy Drinking ........................................................................................................................... 26 Clinical Preventive Practices Breast Cancer Screening ............................................................................................................. 27 Cervical Cancer Screening .......................................................................................................... 29 Prostate Cancer Screening........................................................................................................... 30 Colorectal Cancer Screening ....................................................................................................... 32 Adult Immunizations................................................................................................................... 33 Bibliography............................................................................................................................................. 34
4

BRFSS Methodology
The Georgia Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) is a primary source of information on major chronic conditions, health risk behaviors, and the use of clinical preventive services among adult Georgians.
Sampling: Using list-assisted, random digit dialing, Georgia respondents were randomly selected from the non-institutionalized adult population aged 18 years and older from each household. Trained interviewers administered the questionnaire and participation was voluntary and anonymous. The sample excluded institutionalized individuals and households without telephones. Data came from both respondents who had landline telephones as well as those who use only cellular phones.
Weighting: The 2011 BRFSS was the first year in which the iterative proportional fitting, or raking, methodology was used for the Georgia BRFSS. Raking is a repetitive post-stratification weighting technique used to match the marginal distributions of the survey sample to known population margins. An advantage of raked weighting technique is that it allows for adjustment of probability selection, telephone source (landline or cellular phone), race, ethnicity, education level, marital status, age by gender, gender by race/ethnicity, age by race/ethnicity, and renter/owner status. The goal is to improve sample representation by reducing respondent under-coverage and non-response biases.
Data Analysis: SAS-callable SUDAAN was used for all data analysis to construct estimates and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results were considered not "statistically different" if the 95% CI associated with the weighted percentages overlapped. A result is considered "statistically significant" (indicating a difference) if there were no overlap in the 95% CI of the percentages being compared. Estimates do not include those who either answered "don't know" or refused to answer the question.
Comparing 2011 BRFSS data to previous years: Comparison between 2011 BRFSS data and previous years is not recommended due to the significant changes in methodology in 2011 1. Methodological changes implemented in 2011 have improved the accuracy, coverage, validity, and representativeness of the BRFSS. The magnitude of estimates may change as a result and may not reflect true trends in prevalence. Data from 2011 BRFSS should be the new baseline for comparison with future BRFSS data.
5

Summary of Results
Summary
Selected chronic conditions, risk behaviors, and clinical preventive services from the 2011 Georgia BRFSS are shown in the chart below in comparison with data from the 2011 National BRFSS, which includes all 50 states, three territories, and Washington, D.C.

Selected Chronic Conditions and Risk Factors, US and Georgia BRFSS, 2011

Ever Told Stroke
Heavy Drinking
Ever Told Diabetes
Ever Told Asthma
Current Smoking
Obesity (BMI 30) Flu Shot in Past year
(65+ Years Old) No Health Care
Coverage (18-64... Adequate Physical
Activity

3.4 2.9
6.2 6.6
10.2 9.5
14.1 13.7

21.2 21.1
27.8 27.8

29 21.1
20.7 20.9

55.2 61

0

20

40

60

80

100

Percent (%)

GA US Median

Stroke: In 2011, 3.4% of Georgia adults have ever been diagnosed with stroke. This estimate is slightly higher than the US median prevalence of 2.9%.

Heavy Drinking (5 drinks per occasion for men, 4 drinks per occasion for women in the previous month): In 2011, 6.2% of Georgia adults engaged in heavy drinking. This estimate is similar to the US median prevalence of 6.6%.

Diabetes: In 2011, 10.2%of Georgia adults have ever been diagnosed with diabetes. This estimate is slightly higher than the US median prevalence of 9.5%.

Asthma: In 2011, 14.1% of Georgia adults have ever been diagnosed with asthma. This estimate is slightly higher than the US median prevalence of 13.7%.

Tobacco Use: In 2011, 21.2% of Georgia adults currently smoked cigarettes. This estimate is similar to the US median prevalence of 21.1%.

Flu shot in Past Year: In 2011, 55.2% of Georgia adults aged 65 years and older received a flu shot in the past year. This estimate is lower than the US median estimate of 61%. Obesity: In 2011, 27.8% of Georgia adults were obese. This estimate is similar to the US median prevalence of 27.8%.

No Health Care Coverage: In 2011, 29% of Georgia adults did not have any form of health coverage, which exceeds the US median estimate of 21.1%.

Adequate Physical Activity: In 2011, 20.7% of Georgia adults met both CDC's recommendations for aerobic and muscle-strengthening physical activity. This is similar to the US median prevalence of 20.9%.

6

Demographic Characteristics
Demographics

In 2011, there were approximately 7,300,000 adults aged 18 years and older residing in the state of Georgia 2.

Approximately 9,960 adults participated in the 2011 Georgia BRFSS survey statewide. Among Georgia adult residents, 51% were female and 48% were male. The majority of the population of Georgia was nonHispanic white (59.6%). More than half the population of Georgia in 2011 was under the age of 45 years. Approximately 24.2% of Georgia residents had an annual household income of $75,000 or more. About 83% of the population had at least a high school diploma and 25% had at least a college diploma.

Distribution of Georgia Residents, by Sex, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

48.6

51.4

40

20

0 Male

Female

Demographic Characteristics Sex Male Female Race/Ethnicity White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic Hispanic Age 18-24 years 25-34 years 35-44 years 45-54 years 55-64 years 65+ years Annual Income Less than $15,000 $15,000-$24,999 $25,000-$34,999 $35,000-$49,999 $50,000-$74,999 $75,000 or More Education Less than High School High School Graduate Some College College Graduate

Georgia Total

(N=9,960)

%

95% CI

48.6

(47.1, 50.1)

51.4

(49.9, 53.0)

59.6

(58.0, 61.1)

28.0

(26.6, 29.5)

7.9

(6.9, 9.0)

13.5

(12.1, 15.0)

19.0

(17.6, 20.4)

19.6

(18.4, 20.8)

18.8

(17.8, 19.9)

14.4

(13.7, 15.2)

14.8

(14.1, 15.5)

14.3

(13.1, 15.5)

21.7

(20.3, 23.2)

12.9

(11.9, 14.1)

13.2

(12.1, 14.2)

13.7

(12.7, 14.8)

24.2

(23.0, 25.5)

17.1

(15.8, 18.5)

30.1

(28.7, 31.6)

28.2

(26.8, 29.6)

24.6

(23.5, 25.7)

Percent (%)

Percent (%)

Distribution of Georgia Residents, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011

100

80 59.6
60

40

28.0

20

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

7.9 Hispanic

Percent (%)

Distribution of Georgia Residents, by Annual Household Income Level, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

40 21.7

24.2

20

14.3

12.9

13.2

13.7

0

Less than $15,000

$15,000$24,999

$25,000$34,999

$35,000$49,999

$50,000- $75,000 or

$74,999

More

Percent (%)

Distribution of Georgia Residents by Age Group, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

40

20

13.5

19.0

19.6

18.8

14.4

14.8

0 18-24 yr 25-34 yr 35-44 yr 45-54 yr 55-64 yr 65+ yr

Percent (%)

Distribtion of Georgia Residents by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

40

30.1

28.2

24.6

17.1

20

0
Less than High School

High School Graduate

Some College College Graduate

7

Health Status Indicators

General Health

Self-assessed health status is a measure of how individuals perceive their health rating (excellent, very good, good, fair, or poor)
and is a useful indicator which allows for general comparisons between varieties of health conditions. Poor perceived health may be linked to various adverse psychosocial states such as social isolation, negative life events, depression and job stress 3.

In 2011, 18.9% of Georgia adults reported that they perceive their health rating as fair or poor.
Adults aged 65 years and older (33%) were significantly more likely to report fair or poor general health compared to adults in other age groups. Adults with an annual household income less than $15,000 (40.2%) were significantly more likely to report fair or poor general health than adults with an annual household income more than $15,000. Adults without health care coverage (24.2%) were significantly more likely to report fair or poor general health than adults with health care coverage (13.3%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Reported Fair/Poor General Health, by Age Group, Georgia, 2011

50

40

33

30

27.1

22.1

20

12.6

13

10

7.4

0 18-24 yr 25-34 yr 35-44 yr 45-54 yr 55-64 yr 65+ yr

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Reported Fair/Poor General Health, by Annual Household Income, Georgia, 2011

50 40.2
40

28.2 30

19.4

20

13.8

8.2

10

5.2

0 Less than $15,0$0105,000- $24,9$9295,000- $34,9$9395,000- $49,9$9590,000- $74,9$9795,000 or More

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Reported Fair/Poor General Health, by Health Care Coverage, Georgia, 2011
50

40

30

24.2

20

13.3

10

0 Has Health Coverage

No Health Coverage

Perceived Fair/Poor General Health a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

18.9

(17.8, 20.1)

Sex

Male

18.7

(16.9, 20.6)

Female

19.1

(17.8, 20.5)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

17.5

(16.2, 18.8)

Black Non-Hispanic

20.4

(18.1, 22.9)

Hispanic

24

(18.5, 30.5)

Age

18-24 years

7.4

(4.7, 11.3)

25-34 years

12.6

(9.7, 16.2)

35-44 years

13

(10.6, 15.8)

45-54 years

22.1

(19.7, 24.7)

55-64 years

27.1

(24.8, 29.6)

65+ years

33

(30.8, 35.2)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

40.2

(35.7, 44.8)

$15,000-$24,999

28.2

(25.1, 31.5)

$25,000-$34,999

19.4

(16.0, 23.3)

$35,000-$49,999

13.8

(11.3, 16.7)

$50,000-$74,999

8.2

(6.5, 10.3)

$75,000 or More

5.2

(4.1, 6.5)

Education

Less than High School

39.8

(35.7, 44.1)

High School Graduate

22

(19.8, 24.2)

Some College

14.6

(12.9, 16.5)

College Graduate

5.8

(4.9, 6.7)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

13.3

(12.1, 14.6)

No Health Coverage

24.2

(21.1, 27.6)

a The proportion of adults who reported that their health, in general, was fair or poor.

Percent of Adults who Reported Fair/Poor General Health, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent Poor/Fair General Health
<15% 15-<20% 20-<25% >=25%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

8

Health Status Indicators

No Health Care Coverage

Individuals without health care coverage have decreased access to health care services and usually delay getting needed medical
attention. Insurance coverage is an important factor in determining whether people will have access to services like screenings, treatment, and health education 4. Access to health care can be limited by both lack of health insurance and by insufficient coverage.

In 2011, 29% of Georgia adults aged 18-64 years reported that they did not have health care coverage.
Hispanics (60%) were significantly more likely not to have health care coverage than non-Hispanic whites (22.1%) and non-Hispanic blacks (34.9%). Adults aged 18-24 years (41.7%) were more likely not to have health care coverage than other age groups. Adults with an annual household income less than $15,000 (53%) were less likely not to have any form of health care coverage compared to adults in other income levels. Adults with less than a high school education (61.1%) were significantly more likely not to have health coverage than high school graduates (32.7%), those with some college (25.9%), and college graduates (8.1%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults aged 18-64 years with No Health Care Coverage, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011

100

80 60.0
60

40

34.9

22.1

20

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

Hispanic

No Health Care Coverage 18-64 Years Age a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

29

(27.3, 30.7)

Sex

Male

31.3

(28.6, 34.2)

Female

26.6

(24.6, 28.8)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

22.1

(20.1, 24.1)

Black Non-Hispanic

34.9

(31.4, 38.6)

Hispanic

60

(52.8, 66.7)

Age

18-24 years

41.7

(35.7, 48.0)

25-34 years

34.9

(30.7, 39.3)

35-44 years

31.1

(27.6, 34.8)

45-54 years

21.9

(19.4, 24.6)

55-64 years

15.9

(14.0, 17.9)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

53

(47.5, 58.5)

$15,000-$24,999

50.2

(45.7, 54.6)

$25,000-$34,999

33

(27.8, 38.6)

$35,000-$49,999

17.9

(14.2, 22.3)

$50,000-$74,999

9.3

(6.3, 13.4)

$75,000 or More

5

(3.7, 6.7)

Education

Less than High School

61.1

(55.8, 66.1)

High School Graduate

32.7

(29.5, 36.0)

Some College

25.9

(23.0, 29.1)

College Graduate

8.1

(6.6, 9.8)

a The proportion of adults aged 18-64 years old who have no health care coverage,

including health insurance, prepaid plans such as HMOs, or government plans such as Medicare or Indian Health Service.

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults aged 18-64 years with No Health Care Coverage, by Annual Household Income, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

53

50.2

40

33

17.9

20

9.3

5

0

Less than $15,0$0105,000- $24,9$9295,000- $34,9$9395,000- $49,9$9590,000- $74,99$975,000 or More

Percent of Adults aged 18-64 years with No Health Care Coverage, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011

100

80 61.1
60

40

32.7 25.9

20

8.1

0 Less than High SchoHoilgh School Graduate Some College College Graduate

Percent of Adults aged 18-64 years with No Health Care Coverage, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent No Health Insurance
<25% 25-<30% 30-<35% >=35%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

9

Percent (%)

Health Status Indicators

Limited Health Care Access

Limited health care access is defined as: (1) not having a personal doctor or health care provider; and, (2) having a time in the past year when one needed to see a doctor but could not due to cost. These indicators are very important to health care due to the fact that increase in access to primary care have been shown to significantly improve health-related outcomes.

In 2011, 26.9% of Georgia adults did not have a personal doctor or a heath care provider.
Hispanics (55.4%) were significantly more likely not to have a personal doctor when compared to non-Hispanics blacks (31.3%) and non-Hispanics whites (20.9%). Adults aged 18-24 yrs. (48.2%) were the most likely not to have a personal doctor. The proportion of Georgia adults with a personal doctor decreases as annual household income decreases. Adults without health care coverage (63.3%) were significantly more likely not to have a personal doctor than adults with health care coverage (17%).

In 2011, 21.8% of Georgia adults could not visit a doctor due to costs within the past 12 months.
Hispanics (32.1%) had the highest rates of forgoing medical care due to costs. Adults with less than a high school education (37.9%) were four times more likely to forgo medical care due to cost than college graduates (9.4%). The proportion of adults who forgo medical care due to costs increases as annual household income decreases. Adults without health care coverage (51.1%) were significantly more likely to forgo medical care due to cost than adults with health care coverage (13.7%).

Percent (%)

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who have Limited Health Care Access,

by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011

100

No Doctor's Visit

80

No Personal Doctor

60

55.4

40
17.6 20.9 20

28 31.3

32.1

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

Hispanic

Percent of Adults who have Limited Health Care Access, by Age Group, Georgia, 2011

100

No Doctor's Visits

80

No Personal Doctor

60

48

40 22
20

42 29

31 25

25 19

19 14

76

0

18-24 yr 25-34 yr 35-44 yr 45-54 yr 55-64 yr 65+ yr

Percent of Adults who have Limited Health Care Access, by Health Care Coverage, Georgia, 2011

100

No Doctor's Visits

No Personal Doctor 80
63.3

60

51.1

40

20

13.7

17

0 Has Health Coverage

No Health Coverage

No Personal Health Care Provider a

No Health Care Due to Cost b

Demographic

Characteristics

% 95% CI

% 95% CI

State Totals

26.9 (25.5, 28.5)

21.8 (20.4, 23.2)

Sex

Male

34.1 (31.6, 36.6)

19.4 (17.3, 21.7)

Female

20.2 (18.6, 21.9)

24 (22.4, 25.8)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

20.9 (19.3, 22.6)

17.6 (16.2, 19.2)

Black Non-Hispanic

31.3 (28.1, 34.6)

28 (25.1, 31.2)

Hispanic

55.4 (48.5, 62.1)

32.1 (25.9, 39.1)

Age

18-24 years

48.2 (42.2, 54.4)

22.2 (17.6, 27.7)

25-34 years

41.8 (37.6, 46.1)

29.4 (25.4, 33.7)

35-44 years

31.3 (27.9, 34.9)

24.9 (21.8, 28.4)

45-54 years

18.5 (16.3, 21.1)

24.6 (22.2, 27.3)

55-64 years

13.8 (12.0, 15.9)

19.1 (17.0, 21.4)

65+ years

6.4 (5.2, 7.8)

6.7 (5.5, 8.2)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

37.4 (32.6, 42.5)

45.7 (40.8, 50.5)

$15,000-$24,999

37.7 (33.9, 41.7)

35.1 (31.5, 39.0)

$25,000-$34,999

26.8 (22.6, 31.5)

24.4 (20.5, 28.9)

$35,000-$49,999

19.2 (15.6, 23.5)

16.9 (13.8, 20.5)

$50,000-$74,999

20.3 (16.7, 24.4)

8.7 (6.5, 11.6)

$75,000 or More

13.6 (11.5, 15.9)

4.8 (3.6, 6.4)

Education

Less than High School 42 (37.5, 46.7)

37.9 (33.5, 42.4)

High School Graduate 27.6 (24.9, 30.5)

23.5 (21.0, 26.1)

Some College

24.9 (22.3, 27.8)

21.1 (18.7, 23.6)

College Graduate

17.3 (15.2, 19.5)

9.4 (8.1, 10.9)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

17 (15.5, 18.6)

13.7 (12.4, 15.1)

No Health Coverage

63.3 (59.7, 66.8)

51.1 (47.3, 55.0)

a The proportion of adults who reported that they did not have anyone that they thought of as

their personal doctor or health care provider. b The proportion of adults who reported that they could not see a doctor when needed due to

cost within the past 12 months.

10

Percent (%)

Health Status Indicators

No Annual Doctor's Visit

An annual doctor's visit serves as a preventive measure that can reduce risk factors for common chronic diseases. By having a doctor's visit every year, certain problems can be detected earlier when treatment might be more effective.

In 2011, 27.6% of Georgia adults reported that they have not visited a doctor for a routine checkup within the past 12 months.
Males (32.5%) were significantly more likely than females (23.1%) not to visit a doctor in the past year. Hispanics (40%) were more likely not to visit a doctor in the past year when compared to non-Hispanic whites (28.6%) and non-Hispanic blacks (22.8%). Adults aged 65 years and older (9.8%) were significantly less likely to have not visited a doctor in the past year. Adults with an annual household income of less than $15,000 (34.9%) were the most likely to have not visited a doctor in the past year. More than half of adults without health care coverage (55.3%) did not visit a doctor in the past year.

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who had No Doctor's Visit Last Year,
by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011
100

80

60

40.0

40

28.6

22.8

20

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

Hispanic

No Doctor's Visit a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

27.6

(26.2, 29.1)

Sex

Male

32.5

(30.1, 35.0)

Female

23.1

(21.5, 24.8)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

28.6

(26.9, 30.4)

Black Non-Hispanic

22.8

(20.0, 25.9)

Hispanic

40

(32.9, 47.5)

Age

18-24 years

38.9

(33.0, 45.1)

25-34 years

36.2

(32.1, 40.5)

35-44 years

34.3

(30.9, 37.8)

45-54 years

25.9

(23.3, 28.6)

55-64 years

18.8

(16.9, 21.0)

65+ years

9.8

(8.6, 11.2)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

34.9

(30.3, 39.8)

$15,000-$24,999

33.7

(30.0, 37.6)

$25,000-$34,999

26.4

(22.3, 31.0)

$35,000-$49,999

23.8

(20.0, 28.0)

$50,000-$74,999

26.1

(22.4, 30.3)

$75,000 or More

21.9

(19.5, 24.6)

Education

Less than High School

33

(28.6, 37.7)

High School Graduate

27.5

(24.9, 30.3)

Some College

27.7

(25.1, 30.5)

College Graduate

24.1

(21.9, 26.4)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

21

(19.5, 22.6)

No Health Coverage

55.3

(51.3, 59.2)

a The proportion of adults who reported that they did not visited a doctor for a routine

checkup within the past 12 months.

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who had No Doctor's Visit Last Year, by Age Group, Georgia, 2011
100

80

60

38.9 40

36.2

34.3

25.9

18.8

20

9.8

0 18-24 yr 25-34 yr 35-44 yr 45-54 yr 55-64 yr 65+ yr

Percent of Adults who had No Doctor's Visit Last Year,
by Health Care Coverage, Georgia, 2011
100

80

60

55.3

40 21.0
20

0 Has Health Coverage

No Health Coverage

Percent of Adults who had No Doctor's Visit Last Year, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

Percent No Annual Doctor's Visit
<24% 24-<27% 27-<30% >=30%

4

6

5-2

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

11

Percent (%)

Health Status Indicators
Disability

Disability refers to limitations in activities due to physical, mental, or emotional problems or having health problems that require the use of special equipment. People with disabilities may lack access to health services and medical care 5.

In 2011, 23.4% of Georgia adults reported being disabled in any way.
Hispanics (9.1%) were significantly less likely to be disabled when compared to other race/ethnicity groups. Adults aged 55-64 years (36.2%) and 65 years or older (36.2%) were significantly more likely to be disabled than adults in other age groups. Adults with an annual household income less than $15,000 (36.5%) were significantly more likely to be disabled compared to adults in other income levels. Adults with less than a high school education (30.3%) had a significantly higher prevalence of disability than adults with some college (22.3%) and college graduates (17.8%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who reported being Disabled, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

40

25.7

21.8

20

9.1

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

Hispanic

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who reported being Disabled, by Annual Household Income, Georgia, 2011
100

80

60

36.5

40

28.4

23.7

20.9

18.1

15.6

20

0

Less than $15,000

$15,000$24,999

$25,000$34,999

$35,000$49,999

$50,000- $75,000 or

$74,999

More

Percent of Adults who reported being Disabled, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011
100

80

60

40

30.3

25.4

22.3

17.8

20

0 Less than High SchoHoilgh School Graduate Some College College Graduate

Percent (%)

Disability a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

23.4

(22.2, 24.7)

Sex

Male

21.2

(19.3, 23.1)

Female

25.6

(24.0, 27.1)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

25.7

(24.2, 27.2)

Black Non-Hispanic

21.8

(19.4, 24.4)

Hispanic

9.1

(6.3, 13.0)

Age

18-24 years

12

(8.5, 16.7)

25-34 years

11.8

(9.2, 15.0)

35-44 years

18.8

(16.1, 21.8)

45-54 years

27.7

(25.0, 30.5)

55-64 years

36.2

(33.7, 38.9)

65+ years

36.4

(34.2, 38.7)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

36.5

(32.2, 41.1)

$15,000-$24,999

28.4

(25.3, 31.8)

$25,000-$34,999

23.7

(20.1, 27.7)

$35,000-$49,999

20.9

(17.8, 24.3)

$50,000-$74,999

18.1

(15.4, 21.0)

$75,000 or More

15.6

(13.7, 17.8)

Education

Less than High School

30.3

(26.6, 34.3)

High School Graduate

25.4

(23.1, 27.9)

Some College

22.3

(20.2, 24.6)

College Graduate

17.8

(16.2, 19.6)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

22

(20.5, 23.5)

No Health Coverage

19.1

(16.4, 22.2)

a The proportion of adults who reported being limited in any activities due to physical,

mental, or emotional problems.

Percent of Adults who reported being Disabled, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent Disabled <22% 22-<24% 24-<26% >=26%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

12

Chronic Conditions

Asthma
Asthma is a lifelong disease that causes wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing 6. Most people with asthma can control their symptoms and prevent asthma attacks by avoiding asthma triggers and correctly using prescribed medicines.

In 2011, 14.1% of Georgia adults reported ever having asthma and 9.6% currently have asthma.
Adult females were significantly more likely than males to have ever had asthma (15.7% vs. 12.3%) and to currently have asthma (11.6% vs. 7.5%). Non-Hispanic whites (9.8%) and non-Hispanic blacks (10.9%) were more likely to currently have asthma compared to Hispanics (3.5%). Adults with a household income of less than $15,000 were the most likely to have ever had asthma (20.5%) and to currently have asthma (16%). Adults with less than a high school education were most likely to have ever had asthma (17.5%) and to currently have asthma (13.4%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who have had Asthma, by Gender, Georgia, 2011

50

Lifetime Asthma

40

Current Asthma

30

20 12.3

10

7.5

15.7 11.6

0 Male

Female

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who have had Asthma, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011

50

Lifetime Asthma

40

Current Asthma

30

20

14.9

9.8

10

0 White Non-Hispanic

14.3 10.9
Black Non-Hispanic

6.3 3.5
Hispanic

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who have had Asthma, by Annual Household Income, Georgia, 2011

50

Lifetime Asthma

40

Current Asthma

30 20.5

20

16

10

17.3 12

12.1 8.6

12.5 8.8

12.1 7.7

10.8 6.5

0

Less than $15,000

$15,000$24,999

$25,000$34,999

$35,000$49,999

$50,000$74,999

$75,000 or More

Lifetime Asthma a

Current Asthma b

Demographic

Characteristics

% 95% CI

% 95% CI

State Totals

14.1 (13.0, 15.2)

9.6 (8.7, 10.5)

Sex

Male

12.3 (10.7, 14.2)

7.5 (6.2, 8.9)

Female

15.7 (14.3, 17.2)

11.6 (10.4, 12.9)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

14.9 (13.6, 16.3)

9.8 (8.8, 11.0)

Black Non-Hispanic

14.3 (12.1, 16.8)

10.9 (9.0, 13.2)

Hispanic

6.3 (3.9, 10.1)

3.5 (2.0, 6.1)

Age

18-24 years

18.7 (14.5, 23.9)

10 (7.0, 14.1)

25-34 years

15.7 (12.8, 19.1)

10.6 (8.1, 13.7)

35-44 years

12.7 (10.5, 15.3)

9.3 (7.4, 11.6)

45-54 years

12.7 (10.9, 14.7)

9.3 (7.7, 11.1)

55-64 years

13.7 (11.9, 15.6)

9.1 (7.7, 10.7)

65+ years

11.9 (10.5, 13.5)

9.3 (8.0, 10.7)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

20.5 (16.9, 24.7)

16 (12.9, 19.7)

$15,000-$24,999

17.3 (14.5, 20.5)

12 (9.6, 14.8)

$25,000-$34,999

12.1 (9.4, 15.3)

8.6 (6.3, 11.5)

$35,000-$49,999

12.5 (9.7, 16.0)

8.8 (6.3, 12.1)

$50,000-$74,999

12.1 (9.7, 15.1)

7.7 (5.8, 10.2)

$75,000 or More

10.8 (9.1, 12.8)

6.5 (5.3, 8.0)

Education

Less than High School 17.5 (14.5, 21.0)

13.4 (10.7, 16.5)

High School Graduate 14.4 (12.3, 16.7)

9.8 (8.2, 11.7)

Some College

14 (12.0, 16.3)

9 (7.4, 11.0)

College Graduate

11.5 (10.1, 13.1)

7.4 (6.3, 8.7)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage 14.7 (13.3, 16.2)

9.7 (8.6, 11.0)

No Health Coverage

13.4 (11.0, 16.2)

9.5 (7.5, 12.1)

a The proportion of adults who reported that they were ever told by a doctor, nurse, or other

health care professional that they had asthma. b The proportion of adults who reported that they still had asthma.

Percent of Adults who currently have Asthma, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent Asthma <6% 6-<8% 8-<10% >=10%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

13

Chronic Conditions

Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic disease where the body is unable to process glucose, causing blood glucose levels to be higher than normal.
Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States and increases the risk for heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, blindness, kidney disease, amputations, nerve problems, dental disease, and infections 7.

In 2011, 10.2% of Georgia adults reported ever being diagnosed with diabetes by a health care professional.
Non-Hispanic blacks (11.8%) were more likely to have ever been diagnosed with diabetes than Hispanics (6.3%). The prevalence of diabetes was significantly higher among adults aged 65 years and older (25.9%). Adults with an annual household income of less than $15,000 (18%) were more likely to ever have diabetes than adults with an income of $75,000 or more (4.9%). Adults with less than a high school education (16.4%) were significantly more likely to ever have diabetes compared to high school graduates (11.4%), some college education (8.9%), and college graduates (5.8%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults Diagnosed with Diabetes, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011

30

25

20

15

11.8

10.1

10

6.3

5

0

White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

Hispanic

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults Diagnosed with Diabetes, by Age Group, Georgia, 2011

30

25.9

25 19.6
20

15

10

5

1

0

9.9
5.2 2.3

18-24 yr 25-34 yr 35-44 yr 45-54 yr 55-64 yr 65+ yr

Diabetes a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

10.2

(9.5, 10.9)

Sex

Male

9.8

(8.8, 11.0)

Female

10.5

(9.6, 11.5)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

10.1

(9.3, 11.0)

Black Non-Hispanic

11.8

(10.2, 13.5)

Hispanic

6.3

(4.2, 9.4)

Age

18-24 years

1

(0.3, 2.9)

25-34 years

2.3

(1.3, 4.1)

35-44 years

5.2

(3.9, 7.0)

45-54 years

9.9

(8.3, 11.7)

55-64 years

19.6

(17.6, 21.9)

65+ years

25.9

(23.9, 27.9)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

18

(15.1, 21.4)

$15,000-$24,999

12.3

(10.6, 14.2)

$25,000-$34,999

12.5

(10.1, 15.2)

$35,000-$49,999

8.6

(7.0, 10.6)

$50,000-$74,999

6.5

(5.2, 8.1)

$75,000 or More

4.9

(4.0, 5.8)

Education

Less than High School

16.4

(14.0, 19.2)

High School Graduate

11.4

(10.0, 13.0)

Some College

8.9

(7.8, 10.1)

College Graduate

5.8

(5.1, 6.7)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

8.1

(7.3, 9.1)

No Health Coverage

5.6

(4.5, 7.0)

a The proportion of adults who have physician-diagnosed diabetes. Adults with prediabetes

or diabetes only during pregnancy are not considered to have a diagnosis of diabetes.

Percent of Adults Diagnosed with Diabetes, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

Percent Diabetes
<9% 9-<11% 11-<13% >=13%

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults Diagnosed with Diabetes, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011

30

25

20

16.4

15

11.4

8.9

10

5.8

5

0

Less than High SchoHoilgh School Graduate Some College College Graduate

4 7 8-2

6 5-2
5-1
9-1 9-2 8-1

14

Chronic Conditions

Heart Attack

Heart attack, also called myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to a section of the heart muscle becomes blocked. Risk factors for heart attack include high blood cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, smoking, lack of physical activity, and obesity 8.

In 2011, 4.4% of Georgia adults reported being told by a health professional that they have had a heart attack.
Adult males (5.2%) were significantly more likely to have had a heart attack when compared to females (3.6%). White non-Hispanics (5.2%) were significantly more likely to have had a heart attack than black non-Hispanics (3.1%) and Hispanics (2.0%). Adults aged 65 years or older (13.8%) were significantly more likely to have had a heart attack when compared to other age groups. Adults with an annual household income of less than $15,000 (7.9%) were most likely to have had a heart attack.

Percent of Adults who have had a Heart Attack, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011
15

Percent (%)

10

5.2

5

3.1

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

2 Hispanic

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who have had a Heart Attack, by Age Group, Georgia, 2011

15

13.8

10 7.6

5

4

0.8

0.6

1.3

0

18-24 yr 25-34 yr 35-44 yr 45-54 yr 55-64 yr 65+ yr

Percent of Adults who have had a Heart Attack, by Annual Household Income, Georgia, 2011
15

Percent (%)

10

7.9

6.9

5

4.2

2.7

3.1

1.7

0

Less than $15,000

$15,000 $24,999

$25,000 $34,999

$35,000 $49,999

$50,000 - $75,000 or

$74,999

More

Please Note: The percentage of adults who have had a heart attack in this document include only those who survived the condition.

Heart Attack a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

4.4

(3.9, 4.9)

Sex

Male

5.2

(4.4, 6.0)

Female

3.6

(3.1, 4.2)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

5.2

(4.6, 5.9)

Black Non-Hispanic

3.1

(2.3, 4.0)

Hispanic

2

(1.1, 3.8)

Age

18-24 years

0.8

(0.2, 2.4)

25-34 years

0.6

(0.2, 2.1)

35-44 years

1.3

(0.6, 2.5)

45-54 years

4

(3.0, 5.4)

55-64 years

7.6

(6.3, 9.2)

65+ years

13.8 (12.2, 15.6)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

7.9

(6.2, 10.1)

$15,000-$24,999

6.9

(5.5, 8.5)

$25,000-$34,999

4.2

(3.1, 5.7)

$35,000-$49,999

2.7

(2.0, 3.7)

$50,000-$74,999

3.1

(2.2, 4.3)

$75,000 or More

1.7

(1.2, 2.4)

Education

Less than High School

9.4

(7.5, 11.7)

High School Graduate

4.1

(3.4, 4.9)

Some College

3.1

(2.6, 3.9)

College Graduate

2.5

(2.0, 3.1)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

2.7

(2.3, 3.3)

No Health Coverage

2.7

(1.9, 4.0)

a The proportion of adults who had ever been told by a health professional that they had a

heart attack or myocardial infarction.

Percent of Adults who have had a Heart Attack, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent Heart Attack <3.5% 3.5-<5% 5-<6.5% >=6.5%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

15

Chronic Conditions

Stroke

Stroke is the result of a blocked artery or a ruptured artery that prevents blood flow to the brain. Stroke is the leading cause of death in the United States and can cause significant disability, such as paralysis, speech difficulties, and emotional problems 9.

In 2011, 3.4% of Georgia adults reported ever being told by a health professional that they survived a stroke.
Non-Hispanic whites (3.9%) were more likely to have ever had a stroke when compared to non-Hispanic blacks (2.8%) and Hispanics (1.4%). A significantly higher proportion of Georgia adults aged 65 years and older (8.4%) have ever had a stroke. Adults with an annual household income less than $15,000 (6.6%) were most likely to have ever had a stroke. Adults with less than a high school education (6.8%) were significantly more likely to have ever had a stroke compared to high school graduates (3.6%), those with some college (3.0%), and college graduates (1.4%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who have ever had a Stroke, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011
15

10

5

3.9

2.8

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

1.4 Hispanic

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who have ever had Stroke, by Age Group, Georgia, 2011
15

10

8.4

5.4

5

3.1

1.2

1.7

1.7

0 18-24 yr 25-34 yr 35-44 yr 45-54 yr 55-64 yr 65+ yr

Percent of Adults who have ever had Stroke, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011
15

Percent (%)

10 6.8

5
0 Less than High School

3.6
High School Graduate

3 1.4
Some College College Graduate

Please Note: The percentage of adults who have had a stroke in this document include only those who survived the condition.

Stroke a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

3.4

(3.0, 3.9)

Sex

Male

3.5

(2.8, 4.5)

Female

3.3

(2.9, 3.9)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

3.9

(3.2, 4.6)

Black Non-Hispanic

2.8

(2.1, 3.7)

Hispanic

1.4

(0.6, 3.0)

Age

18-24 years

1.2

(0.4, 3.2)

25-34 years

1.7

(0.7, 4.0)

35-44 years

1.7

(1.0, 2.9)

45-54 years

3.1

(2.2, 4.3)

55-64 years

5.4

(4.3, 6.8)

65+ years

8.4

(7.3, 9.8)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

6.6

(4.9, 8.7)

$15,000-$24,999

5.8

(4.4, 7.5)

$25,000-$34,999

3.7

(2.1, 6.6)

$35,000-$49,999

1.6

(1.1, 2.4)

$50,000-$74,999

1.5

(1.0, 2.3)

$75,000 or More

1.1

(0.7, 1.7)

Education

Less than High School

6.8

(5.2, 9.0)

High School Graduate

3.6

(2.8, 4.7)

Some College

3

(2.4, 3.8)

College Graduate

1.4

(1.0, 1.8)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

2.6

(2.1, 3.3)

No Health Coverage

2.4

(1.5, 3.8)

a The proportion of adults who have ever been told by a health professional that they had a

stroke.

Percent of Adults who have ever had a Stroke, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent Stroke <3% 3-<4% 4-<5% >=5%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

16

Chronic Conditions

Angina

Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle is not getting enough blood. Angina may feel like pressure or a squeezing pain in the chest. The pain may also occur in the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back, and it may feel like indigestion 10.

In 2011, 4.4% of Georgia adults reported ever being told by a health professional that they have angina or coronary heart disease.
Adult males (5.0%) were significantly more likely to have had angina than adult females (3.7%). White non-Hispanics (5.1%) were significantly more likely to have had angina compared to black non-Hispanics (3.3%) and Hispanics (1.4%). Adults aged 65 years and older were most likely to have had angina (14.1%). Adults with health care coverage (3.1%) were significantly more likely to have had angina than those without health care coverage (1.8%).

Percent of Adults who have ever had Angina, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011
15

Percent (%)

10

5.1

5

3.3

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

1.4 Hispanic

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who have ever had Angina, by Age Group, Georgia, 2011

15

14.1

10

8.6

5

4.2

0.6

0.3

0.7

0

18-24 yr 25-34 yr 35-44 yr 45-54 yr 55-64 yr

65+ yr

Percent of Adults who have ever had Angina, by Health Care Coverage, Georgia, 2011
15

10

5

3.1

0 Has Health Coverage

1.8 No Health Coverage

Percent (%)

Angina a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

4.4

(3.9, 4.8)

Sex

Male

5

(4.3, 5.8)

Female

3.7

(3.2, 4.3)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

5.1

(4.6, 5.8)

Black Non-Hispanic

3.3

(2.6, 4.2)

Hispanic

1.4

(0.7, 3.0)

Age

18-24 years

0.6

(0.1, 2.2)

25-34 years

0.3

(0.1, 1.4)

35-44 years

0.7

(0.3, 1.6)

45-54 years

4.2

(3.2, 5.5)

55-64 years

8.6

(7.1, 10.3)

65+ years

14.1

(12.5, 15.8)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

6.4

(4.9, 8.3)

$15,000-$24,999

6.9

(5.5, 8.5)

$25,000-$34,999

4.4

(3.3, 5.9)

$35,000-$49,999

3.5

(2.6, 4.6)

$50,000-$74,999

3

(2.2, 4.1)

$75,000 or More

2.3

(1.8, 3.0)

Education

Less than High School

7.6

(5.9, 9.6)

High School Graduate

4.3

(3.6, 5.1)

Some College

3.7

(3.1, 4.5)

College Graduate

2.9

(2.3, 3.5)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

3.1

(2.6, 3.7)

No Health Coverage

1.8

(1.2, 2.6)

a The proportion of adults who had ever been told by a health professional that they had

angina or coronary heart disease.

Percent of Adults who have ever had Angina, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent Angina <3% 3-<4% 4-<5% >=5%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

17

Chronic Conditions

Obesity
In adults, obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 30.0 kg/m2. Obesity increases the risk of developing high blood pressure, diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, high cholesterol, gallbladder disease and some types of cancers 11.

In 2011, 27.8% of Georgia adults were obese.
Adult females (29.2%) were significantly more likely to be obese than males (26.4%). Non-Hispanic blacks (36.4%) were significantly more likely to be obese compared to non-Hispanic whites (24.8%) and Hispanics (26.4%). Adults with an annual household income of less than $15,000 (34.3%) were most likely to be obese compared to those with an annual household income of $15,000 or more. Adults with less than a high school education (34.0%) were significantly more likely to be obese compared to adults with some college (28.3%) and college graduates (21.3%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who were Obese, by Gender, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

40

26.4

29.2

20

0 Male

Female

Percent of Adults who were Obese, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

36.4

40

24.8

26.4

20

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

Hispanic

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who were Obese, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

40

34

20

29.3

28.3

21.3

0
Less than High School

High School Graduate

Some College College Graduate

Obese a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

27.8

(26.5, 29.2)

Sex

Male

26.4

(24.3, 28.5)

Female

29.2

(27.5, 31.0)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

24.8

(23.3, 26.4)

Black Non-Hispanic

36.4

(33.4, 39.6)

Hispanic

26.4

(20.5, 33.2)

Age

18-24 years

15.2

(11.4, 20.1)

25-34 years

25.8

(22.2, 29.8)

35-44 years

29.7

(26.5, 33.1)

45-54 years

33.6

(30.9, 36.5)

55-64 years

34.4

(31.9, 37.0)

65+ years

25.4

(23.4, 27.4)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

34.3

(30.1, 38.8)

$15,000-$24,999

32.3

(28.8, 35.9)

$25,000-$34,999

28.9

(24.8, 33.3)

$35,000-$49,999

27.1

(23.5, 31.0)

$50,000-$74,999

31.1

(27.5, 34.9)

$75,000 or More

21.3

(19.0, 23.7)

Education

Less than High School

34

(30.0, 38.4)

High School Graduate

29.3

(26.8, 31.9)

Some College

28.3

(25.8, 30.9)

College Graduate

21.3

(19.4, 23.3)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

28.4

(26.8, 30.2)

No Health Coverage

28.1

(24.8, 31.7)

a The proportion of adults whose BMI was greater than or equal to 30.0 kg/m2.

Note: Body mass index, BMI, is defined as weight (kg) divided by height (m) squared.

Percent of Adults who were Obese, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent Obese <25% 25-<30% 30-<35% >=35%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

Percent (%)

18

Chronic Conditions

Overweight
In adults, overweight is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) between 25.0 and 29.9 kg/m2. Being overweight increases the risk of poor health outcomes such as coronary heart disease, type II diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, liver and gallbladder disease 12.

In 2011, 34.9% of Georgia adults were overweight.
Adult males (41.2%) were significantly more likely to be overweight than females (28.8%). Hispanics (39.2%) were more likely to be overweight compared to white non-Hispanics (34.7%) and black nonHispanics (35.3%). Adults with an annual household income of $75,000 or more (40.8%) were most likely to be overweight compared to adults with an annual household income less than $75,000. Adults who were college graduates (38.0%) were significantly more likely to be overweight compared to adults with less than a high school education (30.6%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who were Overweight, by Gender, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

41.2

40

28.8

20

0 Male

Female

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who were Overweight, by Annual Household Income, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

40

29.4

32

34.9

35.8

38.8

40.8

20

0

Less than $15,000

$15,000$24,999

$25,000$34,999

$35,000$49,999

$50,000- $75,000 or

$74,999

More

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who were Overweight, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

40

30.6

32.9

37

38

20

0
Less than High School

High School Graduate

Some College College Graduate

Overweight a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

34.9

(33.5, 36.4)

Sex

Male

41.2

(38.8, 43.6)

Female

28.8

(27.1, 30.5)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

34.7

(33.0, 36.4)

Black Non-Hispanic

35.3

(32.2, 38.5)

Hispanic

39.2

(32.0, 46.8)

Age

18-24 years

22.6

(17.9, 28.1)

25-34 years

34.4

(30.4, 38.6)

35-44 years

38

(34.5, 41.6)

45-54 years

37

(34.1, 40.0)

55-64 years

37.2

(34.6, 39.8)

65+ years

37.8

(35.6, 40.1)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

29.4

(25.1, 34.1)

$15,000-$24,999

32

(28.5, 35.7)

$25,000-$34,999

34.9

(30.7, 39.4)

$35,000-$49,999

35.8

(31.8, 40.0)

$50,000-$74,999

38.8

(34.9, 42.8)

$75,000 or More

40.8

(37.9, 43.8)

Education

Less than High School

30.6

(26.6, 34.9)

High School Graduate

32.9

(30.3, 35.6)

Some College

37

(34.2, 39.9)

College Graduate

38

(35.7, 40.4)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

34.6

(32.9, 36.5)

No Health Coverage

34.2

(30.5, 38.1)

a The proportion of adults whose BMI was between 25.0 and 29.9 kg/m2 .

Note: Body mass index, BMI, is defined as weight (kg) divided by height (m) squared.

Percent of Adults who were Overweight, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

Percent Overweight
<32% 32-<36% 36-<40% >=40%

4

6

5-2

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

19

Risk Behaviors
Adequate Physical Activity

Adequate physical activity can lower the risk of chronic disease or falls and fractures, helps maintain healthy body weight, and enhances quality of life. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults aged 18-64 years participate in either moderate physical activities for at least 150 minutes per week, vigorous physical activities for at least 75 minutes per week, or equivalent combination of both and participate in muscle strengthening activities on two or more days per week 13.

In 2011, 20.7% of Georgia adults currently meet both the aerobic and muscle strengthening components of the physical activity recommendations.
Adult males (24.9%) were significantly more likely than females (16.8%) to engage in adequate physical activity. Black non-Hispanic adults (25.8%) were significantly more likely to engage in adequate physical activity compared to white non-Hispanic (19.3%) and Hispanic (11.3%) adults. The proportion of adults who engaged in adequate physical activity decreased as age increased. Adults with an annual household income of $75,000 or more (26.4%) were more likely to engage in adequate physical activity compared to adults in other household income levels. Adults with a less than high school education (11.4%) were significantly less likely to engage in adequate physical activity compared to adults with some college (22.6%) and college graduates (29.0%). Adults with health care coverage (23.2%) were more likely to engage in adequate physical activity compared to adults without health care coverage (18.4%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Engaged in Adequate Physical Activity, by Gender, Georgia, 2011
50

40

30

24.9

20

16.8

10

0 Male

Female

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Engaged in Adequate Physical Activity, by Annual Household Income, Georgia, 2011

50

40

30

24.4

26.4

18.8

20.6

20.7

20

13.6

10

0

Less than $15,000 - $25,000 - $35,000 - $50,000 - $75,000 or

$15,000 $24,999 $34,999 $49,999 $74,999

More

Meeting Recommendation a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

20.7

(19.4, 22.1)

Sex

Male

24.9

(22.7, 27.3)

Female

16.8

(15.3, 18.3)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

19.2

(17.8, 20.8)

Black Non-Hispanic

25.8

(22.7, 29.1)

Hispanic

11.3

(7.8, 16.2)

Age

18-24 years

29.6

(24.1, 35.7)

25-34 years

25.7

(22.1, 29.8)

35-44 years

20.8

(18.0, 24.0)

45-54 years

18.7

(16.4, 21.1)

55-64 years

16.1

(14.3, 18.2)

65+ years

13.2

(11.6, 14.8)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

13.6

(10.2, 18.0)

$15,000-$24,999

18.8

(15.7, 22.4)

$25,000-$34,999

20.6

(16.5, 25.4)

$35,000-$49,999

24.4

(20.3, 29.0)

$50,000-$74,999

20.7

(17.5, 24.3)

$75,000 or More

26.4

(23.9, 29.2)

Education

Less than High School

11.4

(8.4, 15.3)

High School Graduate

17.2

(14.8, 19.8)

Some College

22.6

(20.0, 25.5)

College Graduate

29

(26.8, 31.4)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

23.2

(21.5, 25.0)

No Health Coverage

18.4

(15.4, 21.9)

a The proportion of adults who currently meet both the aerobic and muscle strengthening

components of the physical activity recommendations

Percent of Adults who Engaged in Adequate Physical Activity, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

Percent Adequate Physical Activity
<15% 15-<20% 20-<25% >=25%

4

6

5-2

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

20

Risk Behaviors

No Leisure Time Physical Activity
Leisure time physical activity helps improve overall health and fitness, and reduces risk for many chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. Regular physical activity also helps to maintain body weight, reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, and enhances quality of life 14. Physical inactivity is defined as not participating in physical activities or exercises such as running, calisthenics, gold, gardening, or walking for exercise during leisure time within the past month.

In 2011, 26.7% of Georgia adults were physically inactive during their leisure time within the past month.
Adult females (29.7%) were significantly more likely than males (23.6%) to be physically inactive. Adults with an income of less than $15,000 (37.3%) were significantly most likely to be physically inactive. Adults with a less than high school education (40.6%) were significantly more likely to be physically inactive compared to college graduates (15%). Adults with health care coverage (22.8%) were less likely to be physically inactive compared to adults without health care coverage (31.1%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who reported No-Leisure Time Activity, by Gender, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

40

29.7

23.6

20

0 Male

Female

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who reported No Leisure-Time Activity, by Annual Household Income, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

37.3

40

31.4

30.2

24.5

23

15.9

20

0 Less than $15,0$0105,000 - $24,$92959,000 - $34,$93959,000 - $49,$95909,000 - $74,9$9795,000 or More

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who reported No Leisure-Time Activity, by Health Care Coverage, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

40

31.1

22.8

20

0 Has Health Coverage

No Health Coverage

No Leisure Time Physical Activity a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

26.7

(25.4, 28.1)

Sex

Male

23.6

(21.6, 25.8)

Female

29.7

(27.9, 31.4)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

25.5

(24.0, 27.1)

Black Non-Hispanic

28.2

(25.3, 31.2)

Hispanic

31.2

(24.9, 38.4)

Age

18-24 years

19.2

(14.8, 24.6)

25-34 years

22.5

(18.9, 26.4)

35-44 years

26.2

(23.0, 29.6)

45-54 years

28

(25.4, 30.9)

55-64 years

28.6

(26.2, 31.1)

65+ years

36.4

(34.2, 38.7)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

37.3

(32.7, 42.1)

$15,000-$24,999

31.4

(28.0, 35.0)

$25,000-$34,999

30.2

(26.1, 34.6)

$35,000-$49,999

24.5

(21.4, 28.0)

$50,000-$74,999

23

(19.5, 26.8)

$75,000 or More

15.9

(13.8, 18.2)

Education

Less than High School

40.6

(36.2, 45.1)

High School Graduate

31.8

(29.1, 34.5)

Some College

23

(20.8, 25.4)

College Graduate

15

(13.4, 16.7)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

22.8

(21.2, 24.4)

No Health Coverage

31.1

(27.6, 34.9)

a The proportion of adults who reported not participating in any leisure-time physical activities

or exercises during the past month.

Percent of Adults who reported No Leisure-Time Activity, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent No Leisure-Time Physical Activity
<65% 65-<70% 70-<75% >=75%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

21

Risk Behaviors
Seatbelt Use
Seatbelt use reduces serious injuries and deaths in motor vehicle crashes by 50% 15. In 2009, about 12,000 more injuries would have been prevented and about 450 more lives saved if all states had primary enforcement seat belt laws 15. Georgia's seat belt law states that while the passenger vehicle is being operated on a public road, street or highway, each occupant in the front seat of a passenger vehicle should be restrained by a safety seat belt approved under federal motor vehicle safety standard 208 16.

In 2011, 88.4% of Georgia adults reported always using a seatbelt when they are driving or riding in a car.
Females (93%) were significantly more likely to always use a seatbelt than males (83.5%). Hispanics (94%) were significantly more likely to always use a seatbelt compared to non-Hispanic whites (88.5%) and non-Hispanic blacks (86.2%). Adults aged 18-24 years (78.7%) were significantly least likely to always use a seatbelt. Adults who are college graduates (91%) were more likely to always use a seatbelt compared to adults with less than a high school education (86.8%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Always Use a Seatbelt, by Gender, Georgia, 2011

100

83.5

80

60

40

20

0 Male

93 Female

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Always Use a Seatbelt by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011

100

88.5

86.2

94.0

80

60

40

20

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

Hispanic

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Aways Use a Seatbelt, by Age Group Georgia, 2011

100

88.3

87.2

91.6

91.3

78.7

80

60

40

20

0 18-24 yr 25-34 yr 35-44 yr 45-54 yr 55-64 yr

91.7 65+ yr

Always use a Seatbelt a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

88.4

(87.2, 89.4)

Sex

Male

83.5

(81.4, 85.4)

Female

93

(91.8, 94.0)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

88.5

(87.1, 89.7)

Black Non-Hispanic

86.2

(83.4, 88.7)

Hispanic

94

(89.1, 96.8)

Age

18-24 years

78.7

(73.0, 83.4)

25-34 years

88.3

(85.2, 90.8)

35-44 years

87.2

(84.3, 89.7)

45-54 years

91.6

(89.6, 93.2)

55-64 years

91.3

(89.7, 92.6)

65+ years

91.7

(90.3, 92.9)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

86.7

(82.7, 89.9)

$15,000-$24,999

87.9

(84.9, 90.3)

$25,000-$34,999

87.8

(83.9, 90.8)

$35,000-$49,999

90.1

(87.2, 92.4)

$50,000-$74,999

88.2

(84.9, 90.9)

$75,000 or More

91.3

(89.3, 93.0)

Education

Less than High School

86.8

(82.7, 90.0)

High School Graduate

87.5

(85.3, 89.5)

Some College

87.8

(85.4, 89.8)

College Graduate

91

(89.4, 92.4)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

88.9

(87.5, 90.2)

No Health Coverage

85

(81.7, 87.8)

a The proportion of adults who always use a seatbelt while driving or riding in a car.

Percent of Adults who always use Seatbelt, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent Seat Belt Use
<85% 85-<88% 88-<91% >=91%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

22

Risk Behaviors
Smoking
Cigarette smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths in the United States17. Smoking is associated with deaths related to cancer, respiratory diseases, and cardiovascular diseases 18. About 10.1% of deaths among Georgia adults are linked to smoking 18.

In 2011, 21.2% of Georgia adults were current cigarette smokers and 22.1% were former smokers.
Adult males (24.3%) were significantly more likely to currently smoke cigarettes than females (18.2%). Non-Hispanic whites (24.2%) were significantly most likely to be current smokers. Adults with less than a high school education (35.8%) were significantly more likely to currently smoke cigarettes compared to high school graduates (24.2%), those with some college (20.7%), and college graduates (8.2%). Adults with health insurance (17.7%) were significantly less likely to currently smoke compared to adults without health insurance (36.4%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Smoke Cigarettes, by Gender, Georgia, 2011
50

40

30

24.3

18.2 20

10

0 Male

Female

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Smoke Cigarettes, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011

50

40

30

24.2

20

17.5 12.6

10

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

Hispanic

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Smoke Cigarettes, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011

50

40

35.8

30

24.2

20.7

20

8.2 10

0
Less than High School

High School Graduate

Some College College Graduate

Current Smoker a

Former Smoker b

Demographic

Characteristics

% 95% CI

% 95% CI

State Totals

21.2 (19.9, 22.6)

22.1 (21.0, 23.3)

Sex

Male

24.3 (22.2, 26.6)

25.5 (23.6, 27.5)

Female

18.2 (16.8, 19.8)

18.9 (17.6, 20.3)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

24.2 (22.6, 26.0)

25.8 (24.3, 27.3)

Black Non-Hispanic

17.5 (15.0, 20.2)

16.9 (14.7, 19.3)

Hispanic

12.6 (8.6, 18.1)

17.6 (13.0, 23.4)

Age

18-24 years

25 (20.1, 30.6)

6.5 (4.2, 9.9)

25-34 years

24.4 (20.9, 28.3)

19.9 (16.6, 23.6)

35-44 years

22.7 (19.6, 26.1)

14.8 (12.5, 17.6)

45-54 years

24.1 (21.6, 26.8)

23.2 (20.8, 25.9)

55-64 years

18.8 (16.8, 21.0)

32.1 (29.6, 34.6)

65+ years

10.8 (9.4, 12.4)

38 (35.8, 40.2)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

35.1 (30.5, 40.0)

18.8 (15.5, 22.5)

$15,000-$24,999

29.1 (25.7, 32.6)

20.3 (17.5, 23.4)

$25,000-$34,999

25.7 (21.8, 30.1)

23.9 (20.3, 27.8)

$35,000-$49,999

19.2 (16.0, 22.8)

23.9 (20.6, 27.5)

$50,000-$74,999

14.8 (11.9, 18.2)

24.6 (21.4, 28.2)

$75,000 or More

8.2 (6.6, 10.0)

23.4 (21.1, 25.8)

Education

Less than High School 35.8 (31.5, 40.4)

20.7 (17.6, 24.2)

High School Graduate 24.2 (21.8, 26.7)

22.9 (20.7, 25.3)

Some College

20.7 (18.4, 23.1)

23.5 (21.2, 25.8)

College Graduate

8.2 (7.0, 9.6)

20.7 (18.9, 22.5)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage 17.7 (16.3, 19.2)

21.4 (20.0, 23.0)

No Health Coverage

36.4 (32.7, 40.2)

14.7 (12.3, 17.4)

a The proportion of adults who reported that they had smoked at least 100 cigarettes (5 packs)

in their life and they currently smoke cigarettes, either every day or on some days. b The proportion of adults who reported that they had smoked at least 100 cigarettes (5 packs)

in their life but do not currently smoke.

Percent of Adults who currently Smoke Cigarettes, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

Percent Smokers
<15% 15-<20% 20-<25% >25%

4

6

5-2

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

23

Risk Behaviors
Smokeless Tobacco
Smokeless tobacco is known to cause cancer of the oral cavity and pancreas, and should not be considered a safe substitute for smoking cigarettes 19. The main types of smokeless tobacco sold in the United States are chewing tobacco, snuff, and snus.

In 2011, 4.4% of Georgia adults reported using smokeless tobacco.
Adult males (7.5%) were significantly more likely to use smokeless tobacco compared to females (1.5%). Non-Hispanic whites (5.1%) were more likely to use smokeless tobacco when compared to non-Hispanic blacks (3.8%) and Hispanics (0.5%). A higher proportion of adults with an annual household income of less than $15,000 (5.5%) use smokeless tobacco. Adults with less than high school education (8.0%) were significantly more likely to use smokeless tobacco compared to college graduates (2.4%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who used Smokeless Tobacco, by Gender, Georgia, 2011
15

10 7.5
5
0 Male

1.5 Female

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who use Smokeless Tobacco, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011
15

10

5.1

5

3.8

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

0.5 Hispanic

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who used Smokeless Tobacco, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011
15

10

8

5.2 5

0

Less than High School

High School Graduate

2.9

2.4

Some College College Graduate

Smokeless Tobacco Use a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

4.4

(3.8, 5.1)

Sex

Male

7.5

(6.3, 8.9)

Female

1.5

(1.1, 2.0)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

5.1

(4.3, 6.2)

Black Non-Hispanic

3.8

(2.6, 5.3)

Hispanic

0.5

(0.2, 1.6)

Age

18-24 years

5.8

(3.5, 9.4)

25-34 years

4.3

(2.7, 6.6)

35-44 years

4.6

(3.3, 6.3)

45-54 years

4.4

(3.1, 6.0)

55-64 years

3.6

(2.7, 4.8)

65+ years

4

(3.1, 5.2)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

5.5

(3.6, 8.2)

$15,000-$24,999

5.2

(3.6, 7.4)

$25,000-$34,999

4.5

(3.0, 6.7)

$35,000-$49,999

3

(1.8, 5.1)

$50,000-$74,999

3.3

(2.2, 4.9)

$75,000 or More

3.2

(2.2, 4.6)

Education

Less than High School

8

(5.9, 10.6)

High School Graduate

5.2

(4.0, 6.8)

Some College

2.9

(2.0, 4.3)

College Graduate

2.4

(1.8, 3.3)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

4.4

(3.6, 5.4)

No Health Coverage

4.6

(3.2, 6.6)

a The proportion of adults who reported that they currently use chewing tobacco, snuff or

snus, either every day or on some days.

Percent of Adults who used Smokeless Tobacco, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent Use Smokeless Tobacco
<3% 3-<5% 5-<7% >=7%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

24

Risk Behaviors

Binge Drinking

Binge drinking is linked to unintentional injuries (falls, car crashes), intentional injuries (sexual assault, domestic violence), alcohol poisoning, liver disease, and neurological damage 20. Binge drinking is defined as consuming five or more drinks per occasion for
men or four or more drinks per occasion for women in the previous month.

In 2011, 16.6% of Georgia adults engaged in binge drinking.
Adult males (22.5%) were significantly more likely than females (11.1%) to engage in binge drinking. More young adults aged 18-24 years (28.8%) and 25-34 years (25.3%) reported binge drinking. Adults with an annual household income of $75,000 or more (19.2%) were the most likely to engage in binge drinking. Adults without health care coverage (23.2%) were more likely to engage in binge drinking compared to adults with health care coverage (17.4%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Engaged in Binge Drinking, by Gender, Georgia, 2011
40

30 22.5
20 11.1
10

0 Male

Female

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Engaged in Binge Drinking, by Age Group, Georgia, 2011

40

28.8

30

25.3

19.3 20
13.5
9 10
2.8

0 18-24 yr 25-34 yr 35-44 yr 45-54 yr 55-64 yr 65+ yr

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Engaged in Binge Drinking, by Health Care Coverage, Georgia, 2011
40

30 23.2

20

17.4

10

0 Has Health Coverage

No Health Coverage

Binge Drinking a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

16.6

(15.3, 18.0)

Sex

Male

22.5

(20.3, 24.9)

Female

11.1

(9.7, 12.5)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

17.5

(15.9, 19.2)

Black Non-Hispanic

13.3

(10.9, 16.2)

Hispanic

21.4

(15.7, 28.5)

Age

18-24 years

28.8

(23.4, 34.9)

25-34 years

25.3

(21.5, 29.6)

35-44 years

19.3

(16.5, 22.4)

45-54 years

13.5

(11.4, 15.9)

55-64 years

9

(7.5, 10.8)

65+ years

2.8

(2.2, 3.7)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

19

(14.7, 24.1)

$15,000-$24,999

17.4

(14.2, 21.0)

$25,000-$34,999

13

(9.8, 17.0)

$35,000-$49,999

13.5

(10.3, 17.6)

$50,000-$74,999

15

(12.1, 18.4)

$75,000 or More

19.2

(16.7, 22.0)

Education

Less than High School

17.8

(14.0, 22.5)

High School Graduate

15.7

(13.3, 18.4)

Some College

17

(14.6, 19.6)

College Graduate

16.6

(14.6, 18.7)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

17.4

(15.8, 19.1)

No Health Coverage

23.2

(19.8, 27.0)

a The proportion of adults who reported drinking 5 or more drinks for men or 4 or more

drinks for women per occasion at least once in the previous month.

Percent of Adults who Engaged in Binge Drinking, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent Binge Drinking
<12% 12-<15% 15-<18% >=18%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

25

Risk Behaviors
Heavy Drinking

Heavy drinking is defined as consuming more than two drinks per day for males and more than one drink per day for females.
Excessive alcohol use is the third leading lifestyle-related cause of death in the United States and has been associated with cirrhosis of the liver, high blood pressure, stroke, and can increase the risk for motor vehicle accidents, injuries, violence, and suicide 21.

In 2011, 6.2% of Georgia adults engaged in heavy drinking.
Adult males (7.4%) were significantly more likely than females (5.1%) to engage in heavy drinking. Non-Hispanic whites (7.7%) were significantly more likely to engage in heavy drinking compared to non-Hispanic blacks (3.1%). Adults aged 65 years and older (3%) were significantly less likely to engage in heavy drinking compared to any other age groups. Heavy drinking is more prevalent among adults with a high annual household income of $50,000-$74,000 (7.7%) and $75,000 or more (7.4%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Engaged in Heavy Drinking, by Gender, Georgia, 2011
30

20

10

7.4

0 Male

5.1 Female

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Engaged in Heavy Drinking, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia 2011

30

21.4

20

17.5

13.3

10

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

Hispanic

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults who Engaged in Heavy Drinking, by Age Group, Georgia, 2011
30

20

9 10

7.8

6.8

5.5

5.3

3

0 18-24 yr 25-34 yr 35-44 yr 45-54 yr 55-64 yr

65+ yr

Heavy Drinking a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

6.2

(5.4, 7.1)

Sex

Male

7.4

(6.1, 9.1)

Female

5.1

(4.3, 6.0)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

7.7

(6.6, 8.9)

Black Non-Hispanic

3.1

(2.1, 4.6)

Hispanic

5.3

(2.5, 10.6)

Age

18-24 years

9

(6.0, 13.4)

25-34 years

7.8

(5.6, 10.7)

35-44 years

6.8

(5.0, 9.1)

45-54 years

5.5

(4.2, 7.1)

55-64 years

5.3

(4.3, 6.5)

65+ years

3

(2.4, 3.8)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

6.4

(3.9, 10.2)

$15,000-$24,999

5.9

(4.3, 8.2)

$25,000-$34,999

3.8

(2.4, 6.0)

$35,000-$49,999

6.4

(4.7, 8.7)

$50,000-$74,999

7.7

(5.4, 10.8)

$75,000 or More

7.4

(5.7, 9.5)

Education

Less than High School

5.6

(3.5, 8.9)

High School Graduate

6.7

(5.2, 8.7)

Some College

5.5

(4.2, 7.0)

College Graduate

6.9

(5.7, 8.3)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

6.2

(5.3, 7.3)

No Health Coverage

8.1

(6.0, 10.7)

a The proportion of adults who reported drinking 2 or more drinks for males or 1 or more

drinks for women per day.

Percent of Adults who Engaged in Heavy Drinking, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent Heavy Drinking
<4% 4-<6% 6-<8% >=8%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

26

Clinical Preventive Practices
Breast Cancer Screening
Breast cancer screening means checking a woman's breast for cancer before there are signs or symptoms of the diseases. Mammograms help screen for breast cancer by detecting for tumors or lumps using X-rays imaging. Women between 50-75 years old should get mammograms once every 2 years 22. Breast cancer screening before age 50 should be done on an individual basis 22.

In 2011, 83.2% of Georgian women aged 40-64 years and 78.3% of Georgian women aged 50 years and older have had a mammogram in the past two years.
Non-Hispanic white women were less likely to have had a mammogram in the past two years. Women with a higher annual household income were more likely to have had a mammogram in the past two years. Women with less than a high school education were significantly less likely to have had a mammogram in the past two years than women who are college graduates. Women with health care coverage were significantly more likely to have had a mammogram in the past two years when compared to women without health care coverage. Among women aged 40-64 years, those with an annual household income of less than $15,000 (73.6%) were significantly less likely to have had a mammogram in the past two years compared to those with an annual household income $75,000 and above (88.3%). Among women aged 50 years and older, non-Hispanic blacks (85.5%) were more likely to have had a mammogram in the past two years compared to nonHispanic whites (76%) and Hispanics (78.5%).

Mammogram 40-64 in Past 2 Years a

Mammogram 50+ in Past 2 Years b

Demographic

Characteristics

% 95% CI

% 95% CI

State Totals

84.2 (80.8, 87.1)

78.3 (75.1, 81.2)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

82.1 (77.6, 85.9)

76.0 (72.2, 79.5)

Black Non-Hispanic

87.3 (80.7, 91.9)

85.5 (78.3, 90.5)

Hispanic

92.0 (74.3, 97.9)

78.5 (49.9, 93.0)

Age

40-44 years

87.4 (77.0, 93.5)

45-49 years

83.2 (75.0, 89.0)

50-54 years

80.9 (71.9, 87.5)

76.6 (67.5, 83.8)

55-59 years

85.3 (78.6, 90.2)

81.2 (74.4, 86.6)

60-64 years

85.5 (79.2, 90.1)

83.0 (76.5, 88.1)

65+ years

75.8 (71.0, 80.0)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

73.6 (61.2, 83.1)

65.3 (54.5, 74.7)

$15,000-$24,999

77.2 (64.6, 86.2)

73.2 (64.2, 80.6)

$25,000-$34,999

85.9 (74.6, 92.6)

77.7 (69.0, 84.6)

$35,000-$49,999

92.2 (85.3, 96.0)

85.4 (77.8, 90.8)

$50,000-$74,999

91.5 (84.5, 95.5)

92.7 (86.9, 96.1)

$75,000 or More

88.3 (81.0, 93.1)

87.0 (80.1, 91.7)

Education

Less than High School 75.6 (61.8, 85.5)

66.6 (56.5, 75.3)

High School Graduate 85.2 (78.7, 90.0)

78.8 (73.1, 83.5)

Some College

81.7 (74.8, 87.1)

80.8 (75.1, 85.4)

College Graduate

91.2 (87.4, 93.9)

86.7 (82.5, 90.0)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

89.3 (86.2, 91.8)

87.0 (83.4, 89.9)

No Health Coverage

62.6 (51.4, 51.4)

50.7 (36.7, 64.6)

a The proportion of women aged 40-64 years who had a mammogram within the past 2 years. b The proportion of women aged 50+ years who had a mammogram within the past 2 years.

Percent (%)

Percent of Females who have had a Mammogram in the Past 2 Years, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011

40-64 Years Old 50+ Years Old

100

80

75.6 66.6

60

85.2 78.8

81.7 80.8

91.2 86.7

40

20

0

Less than High SchoHoigl h School Graduate Some College College Graduate

Percent of Females who have had a Mammogram in the Past 2 Years, by Health Care Coverage, Georgia, 2011

100

89.3

87

80

60

40

20

0 Has Health Coverage

40-64 Years Old 50+ Years Old 62.6 50.7
No Health Coverage

Percent of Females aged 50+ years who have had a Mammogram in the Past 2 years, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

01-1

01-2

02-0

03-1

03-4

03-2 03-5 03-3

10-0

04-0

05-2

Percent Mammogram, Females 50+ years
<75% 75-<80% 80-<85% >=85%
06-0

07-0 08-2

05-1

08-1

09-2

09-1

27

Percent (%)

Clinical Preventive Practices
Breast Cancer Screening cont.

The American Cancer Society recommends that for early breast cancer detection in women without breast symptoms, women aged 40 years and older should have a mammogram every year 23. Mammograms should be continued regardless of age, as long as there
are no serious, chronic health problems such as congestive heart failure, end-stage renal disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 23. Women with serious health problems or short life expectancies should discuss breast cancer screening with their doctor.

In 2011, 70.4% of Georgian women aged 40 years and older have had a mammogram in the past year.
Among women aged 40 years and older, non-Hispanic blacks (75.9%) were more likely to have had a mammogram in the past year compared to non-Hispanic whites (68.9%) and Hispanics (63.4%). Women aged 65 years and older (70%) were the most likely to have had a mammogram in the past year. Among women aged 40 years and older, those with an annual household income of less than $15,000 (61.6%) were less likely to have had a mammogram in the past year compared to those with an annual household income of $15,000 or more. Women with less than a high school education (61.1%) were significantly less likely to have had a mammogram within the past year compared to women who are college graduates (76.3%). Among women aged 40 years and older, those without health care coverage (47.4%) were significantly less likely to have had a mammogram in the past year compared to those with health care coverage (75%).

Mammogram 40+ in Past Year a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

70.4

(67.2, 73.4)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

68.9

(65.1, 72.4)

Black Non-Hispanic

75.9

(69.0, 81.6)

Hispanic

63.4

(37.9,83.2)

Age

40-49 years

71.4

(42.5, 89.4)

50-64 years

69.3

(61.8, 75.9)

65+ years

70

(65.2,74.3)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

61.6

(51.5, 70.7)

$15,000-$24,999

68.3

(60.3, 75.3)

$25,000-$34,999

72

(62.7, 79.8)

$35,000-$49,999

74.1

(65.6, 81.1)

$50,000-$74,999

77.2

(68.0, 84.3)

$75,000 or More

73.8

(66.1, 80.3)

Education

Less than High School

61.1

(50.8, 70.5)

High School Graduate

70.8

(65.3, 75.8)

Some College

69.6

(63.1, 75.4)

College Graduate

76.3

(71.1, 80.9)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

75

(70.7, 78.9)

No Health Coverage

47.4

(36.8, 58.4)

a The proportion of women aged 40+ years who had a mammogram within the past year.

Percent (%)

Percent of Females aged 40+ years who have had a Mammogram in the Past Year, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011

100

75.9

80

68.9

63.4

60

40

20

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

Hispanic

Percent (%)

Percent of Females aged 40+ years who have had a Mammogram in the Past Year, by Age Group, Georgia, 2011

100

80

71.4

69.3

70.0

60

40

20

0 40-49 yr

50-64 yr

65+ yr

Percent (%)

Percent of Females aged 40+ years who have had a Mammogram in the Past Year, by Health Care Coverage, Georgia, 2011

100

80

75

60

47.4

40

20

0 Has Health Coverage

No Health Coverage

Percent (%)

Percent of Females aged 40+ years who have had a Mammogram in the Past Year, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011

100

76.3

80

70.8

69.6

61.1

60

40

20

0 Less than High SchoHoilgh School Graduate Some College College Graduate

28

Clinical Preventive Practices

Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer screening is one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer. Current recommendations for cervical
cancer screening states that Pap testing should begin at 21 years of age. Women aged 21-65 years should have a Pap test every 3 years and women aged 30-65 years can have Pap test every 3 years or Pap and HPV co-testing every 5 years 24. Women aged 65 years or older with adequate screening history or women who had a total hysterectomy should not be screened 24.

In 2011, 83.5% of Georgia women aged 21-65 years reported having a Pap test within the past 3 years.
Hispanics (75.2%) were less likely to have had a Pap test in the past 3 years than other race/ethnicity groups. Woman with a lower annual household income were less likely to have had a Pap test in the past 3 years. Women with less than high school education (77%) were less likely to have had a Pap test in the past 3 years compared to college graduates (89.1%). Woman with health care coverage (88.8%) were significantly more likely to have had a Pap test in the past 3 years than women without health care coverage (66.3%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Females aged 21-65 years who have had a Pap Test in the Past 3 Years, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011

100

83.1

87

75.2 80

60

40

20

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

Hispanic

Pap Test in Past 3 Years a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

83.5 (79.1, 87.1)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

83.1 (77.6, 87.5)

Black Non-Hispanic

87

(77.5, 92.8)

Hispanic

75.2 (50.2, 90.1)

Age

21-24 years

73.3 (24.6, 95.9)

25-34 years

84.2 (74.4, 90.8)

35-44 years

83.3 (73.9, 89.7)

45-54 years

87.1 (80.0, 91.9)

55-65 years

80

(73.5, 85.3)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

80.6 (68.6, 88.7)

$15,000-$24,999

80.6 (67.0, 89.5)

$25,000-$34,999

68.3 (47.8, 83.5)

$35,000-$49,999

88.3 (77.8, 94.2)

$50,000-$74,999

94

(87.6, 97.2)

$75,000 or More

92.6 (86.2, 96.2)

Education

Less than High School

77

(62.5, 87.1)

High School Graduate

85.4 (78.6, 90.3)

Some College

79.3 (68.9, 86.9)

College Graduate

89.1 (82.7, 93.3)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

88.8 (84.4, 92.1)

No Health Coverage

66.6 (55.5, 76.2)

a The proportion of adult females aged 21-65 years who have had a Pap test within the past

three years.

Percent (%)

Percent of Females aged 21-65 years who have had a Pap Test in the Past 3 Years, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011

100 77
80

85.4

79.3

60

40

20

0 Less than High SchoHoilgh School Graduate Some College

89.1 College Graduate

Percent of Females aged 21-65 years who have had a Pap Test in the Past 3 Years, by Health Care Coverage, Georgia, 2011

100

88.8

80

60

40

20

0 Has Health Coverage

66.6 No Health Coverage

Percent of Females aged 21-65 years who have had a Pap Test in the Past 3 years, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent Pap Test <70% 70-<75% 75-<80% >=80%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

29

Percent (%)

Clinical Preventive Practices

Prostate Cancer Screening
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men, second only to lung cancer in the number of related cancer deaths 25. Symptoms can include urination problems, constant pain in the back, hips, or pelvis, and painful ejaculation. Prostate specific antigen test (PSA) measures the level of PSA, a substance produced by the prostate, in the blood, which may be higher in men who have prostate cancer 26. However, other conditions such as an enlarged prostate and prostate infection may also increase PSA levels.

In 2011, 50.6% of Georgia males aged 40 years or older reported having a PSA test within the past 2 years.
Hispanic males aged 40 years and older (15.8%) were less likely to have had a PSA test in the past 2 years. PSA testing was lowest in men aged 40 years and older with an annual income less than $15,000 (36.9%). A higher proportion of men aged 40 years and older with a college degree (58.2%) reported having a PSA test in the past 2 years compared with those without a college degree. Men aged 40 years and older with health care coverage (47.5%) were significantly more likely to have had a PSA test compared to those without health care coverage (21.2%).

Percent (%)

Percent of Males aged 40+ years who have had a PSA Test in the Past 2 Years, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

51.1

55.4

40 15.8
20

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

Hispanic

PSA Test in Past 2 Years a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

50.6

(45.8, 55.4)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

51.1

(45.9, 56.4)

Black Non-Hispanic

55.4

(43.2, 66.9)

Hispanic

15.8

(5.9, 36.0)

Age

40-44 years

24.4

(14.9, 37.2)

45-54 years

41.8

(33.2, 50.8)

55-64 years

60.3

(52.6, 67.5)

65+ years

78.9

(73.2, 83.7)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

36.9

(22.7, 53.8)

$15,000-$24,999

48.2

(35.8, 60.8)

$25,000-$34,999

41.5

(28.1, 56.3)

$35,000-$49,999

53.9

(40.9, 66.3)

$50,000-$74,999

49

(37.4, 60.7)

$75,000 or More

59.3

(51.4, 66.8)

Education

Less than High School

40.5

(27.8, 54.6)

High School Graduate

46.8

(38.6, 55.2)

Some College

51.2

(41.2, 61.1)

College Graduate

58.2

(50.6, 65.4)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

47.5

(41.7, 53.5)

No Health Coverage

21.2

(11.1, 36.8)

a The proportion of adult males over 40 years of age who have had a Prostate-Specific

Antigen (PSA) test within the past 2 years.

Percent (%)

Percent of Males aged 40+ years who have had a PSA Test in the Past 2 Years, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011

100

80

58.2

60

46.8

51.2

40.5

40

20

0 Less than High SchoHoilgh School Graduate Some College College Graduate

Percent of Males aged 40+ years who have had a PSA Test in the Past 2 Years, by Health Care Coverage, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

47.5

40 21.2
20

0 Has Health Coverage

No Health Coverage

Percent of Males aged 40+ years who have had a PSA Test in the Past 2 Years, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent PSA Test <40% 40-<50% 50-<60% >=60%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

30

Percent (%)

Clinical Preventive Practices
Prostate Cancer Screening cont.

The American Cancer Society recommends that for early detection of prostate cancer, men aged 50 years should begin talking to their doctor about whether testing is a right choice for them 27. Men at high risk of developing prostate cancer, including African Americans or those with a history of prostate cancer, should talk to their doctor at age 45 years 27. Men who want to be screened
should be tested with the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. The digital rectal exam (DRE) may also be done as a part of screening. The time between future screenings will depend on the results of the PSA blood test 27.

In 2011, 60.5% of Georgia males aged 45 years or older reported having a PSA test within the past 2 years.
Among males aged 45 years and older, Hispanics (31.8%) were less likely to have had a PSA test in the past two years compared to non-Hispanic whites (60.8%) and nonHispanic blacks (63.7%). Males 65 years and older (79.3%) were significantly most likely to have had a PSA test in the past two years. Among males aged 45 years and older, PSA testing within the past two years was lowest in those with an annual household income less than $15,000 (48.7%). A higher proportion of men aged 45 years and older with a college degree (65.4%) had a PSA test in the past two years compared to those with less than high school education (56.1%), high school graduates (54.6%), and those with some college (63.7%). Males aged 45 years and older with health care coverage (55.8%) were significantly more likely to have had a PSA test in the past two years compared to those without health care coverage (24.7%).

PSA Test in Past 2 Years a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

60.5

(55.6, 65.1)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

60.8

(55.2, 66.1)

Black Non-Hispanic

63.7

(50.9, 74.8)

Hispanic

31.8

(14.3, 56.7)

Age

45-49 years

1.81

(0.2, 13.4)

50-64 years

48.3

(36.4, 60.5)

65+ years

79.3

(73.6, 84.1)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

48.7

(31.8, 65.9)

$15,000-$24,999

57.6

(45.5, 68.8)

$25,000-$34,999

55.5

(40.4, 69.7)

$35,000-$49,999

58.5

(45.5, 70.4)

$50,000-$74,999

66.2

(52.0, 77.9)

$75,000 or More

66

(57.8, 73.2)

Education

Less than High School

56.1

(40.4, 70.7)

High School Graduate

54.6

(46.0, 63.0)

Some College

63.7

(53.6, 72.8)

College Graduate

65.4

(57.9, 72.2)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

55.8

(49.3, 62.1)

No Health Coverage

24.7

(13.1, 41.7)

a The proportion of adult males aged 45 and above who have had a Prostate-Specific

Antigen (PSA) test within the past 2 years.

Percent (%)

Percent of Males aged 45+ years who have had a PSA Test in the Past 2 Years, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia 2011

100

80 60.8

63.7

60

40

20

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

31.8 Hispanic

Percent (%)

Percent of Males aged 45+ years who have had a PSA Test in the Past 2 Years, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011

100

80

63.7

56.1 60

54.6

40

20

0 Less than High SchoHoilgh School Graduate Some College

65.4 College Graduate

Percent (%)

Percent of Males aged 45+ years who have had a PSA Test in the Past 2 Years, byAnnual Household Income, Geogia, 2011

100

80

66.2

66

57.6

55.5

58.5

60

48.7

40

20

0 Less than $15,0$0105,000- $24,9$9295,000- $34,9$9395,000- $49,9$9590,000- $74,9$9795,000 or More

Percent (%)

Percent of Males aged 45+ years who have had a PSA Test in the Past 2 Years , by Health Care Coverage, Georgia, 2011

100 80
55.8 60 40 20
0 Has Health Coverage

24.7 No Health Coverage

31

Clinical Preventive Practices

Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths and third most common cancer in the United States 28.
Screening can find precancerous polyps (abnormal growths in the colon or rectum) so they can be removed before turning cancerous. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends colorectal cancer screening for men and women aged 5075 years using high-sensitivity fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) every year, sigmoidoscopy every five years, or colonoscopy every ten years 29.

In 2011, 60.7% of Georgia adults aged 50 years and older met the recommendations for colorectal cancer screening.
Hispanics aged 50 years or older (51.1%) were least likely to meet recommendations for colorectal cancer screening. Adults aged 65 years or older (68.4%) were most likely to meet the recommendations for colorectal cancer screening. Adults aged 50 years or older with a high annual household income were more likely to meet recommendations for colorectal cancer screening. Adults aged 50 years or older with less than a high school education (44.0%) were significantly less likely to meet colorectal cancer screening recommendations when compared to those who are high school graduates (60.7%), some college (63.1%) and college graduates (70.2%). Adults aged 50 years or older without health care coverage (33.2%) were significantly less likely to meet colorectal cancer screening recommendations when compared to those with health care coverage (62.8%). Among adults aged 50 years or older, 63.8% have had a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy and 19.6% have had a blood stool test in the past two years.

Colorectal Cancer Screening a

Demographic Characteristics

%

95% CI

State Totals

60.7

(57.3, 63.9)

Sex

Males

58.4

(52.9, 63.6)

Females

62.7

(58.5, 66.7)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic

61.7

(58.0, 65.3)

Black Non-Hispanic

60.5

(52.5, 68.0)

Hispanic

51.1

(27.2, 74.6)

Age

50-54 years

44.3

(37.1, 51.8)

55-64 years

66.6

(62.1, 70.9)

65+ years

68.4

(63.2, 73.3)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

44.9

(34.9, 55.4)

$15,000-$24,999

50.1

(41.8, 58.4)

$25,000-$34,999

60.4

(50.3, 69.7)

$35,000-$49,999

69.7

(60.9, 77.2)

$50,000-$74,999

71.5

(63.4, 78.5)

$75,000 or More

70

(63.4, 75.9)

Education

Less than High School

44

(34.6, 53.8)

High School Graduate

60.7

(54.9, 66.3)

Some College

63.1

(56.6, 69.2)

College Graduate

70.2

(65.0, 74.9)

Health Care Coverage

Has Health Coverage

62.8

(58.4, 67.0)

No Health Coverage

33.2

(23.4, 44.7)

a The proportion of adults aged 50+ years who have had a blood stool test ever year,

sigmoidoscopy every five years, or colonoscopy every ten years.

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults aged 50+ years who met Colorectal Cancer Screening Recommendations, by Age Group, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

44.3

40

20

0 50-54 yr

66.6 55-64 yr

68.4 65+ yr

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults aged 50+ years who met Colorectal Cancer Screening Recommendations, by Health Care Coverage, Georgia, 2011

100

80

62.8

60

40

20

0 Has Health Coverage

33.2 No Health Coverage

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults aged 50+ years who met Colorectal Cancer Screening Recommendations, by Annual Household Income, Georgia, 2011

100

80

69.7

71.5

70

60.4

60

44.9

50.1

40

20

0

Less than $15,000

$15,000$24,999

$25,000$34,999

$35,000$49,999

$50,000- $75,000 or

$74,999

More

Percent (%)

Percent of Adults aged 50+ years who met Colorectal Cancer Screening Recommendations, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011

100

80

60

44

40

60.7

63.1

20

0 Less than High SchoHoilgh School Graduate Some College

70.2 College Graduate

32

Clinical Preventive Practices

Adult Immunizations

Adult immunizations against influenza and pneumococcal disease are important preventative measures against morbidity and mortality for adults aged 65 years and older since they are at high risk of developing complications from the diseases 30. From 1976 to 2007, there was an estimated annual average of 5,546 (87.9%) influenza-associated deaths among adults 65 years and older 31.

In 2011, 55.2% of Georgia adults aged 65 and older had a seasonal flu shot within the past year.
Non-Hispanic whites (59.2%) were significantly more likely to receive the seasonal flu shot compared to nonHispanic blacks (43.7%). Adults with a less than high school education (48.8%) were significantly less likely to receive the seasonal flu shot compared to those with some college (59.4%) and college graduates (61.0%).
In 2011, 66.5% of Georgia adults aged 65 and older have ever had the pneumonia vaccine.
Non-Hispanic whites (71.9%) were significantly more likely to receive the pneumonia shot compared to nonHispanic blacks (43.7%), Hispanics (41.3%). Adults with an annual household income less than $15,000 (61.4%) were the least likely to receive the pneumonia shot.

Influenza Shot a

Pneumonia Shot b

Demographic

Characteristics

% 95% CI

% 95% CI

State Totals

55.2 (52.9, 57.5)

66.5 (64.2, 68.8)

Sex

Male

54.3 (50.4, 58.2)

65.6 (61.6, 69.5)

Female

55.9 (53.0, 58.6)

67.1 (64.3, 69.8)

Race/Ethnicity

White Non-Hispanic 59.2 (56.8, 61.7)

71.9 (69.5, 74.1)

Black Non-Hispanic 43.7 (37.6, 50.1)

54.4 (47.8, 60.7)

Hispanic

47.2 (28.2, 67.1)

41.3 (23.3, 61.9)

Annual Income

Less than $15,000

43.3 (36.8, 50.1)

61.4 (54.0, 68.3)

$15,000-$24,999

55.1 (49.8, 60.2)

71.5 (66.5, 76.0)

$25,000-$34,999

51 (44.8, 57.2)

64.4 (58.1, 70.2)

$35,000-$49,999

57.5 (50.8, 63.9)

66.2 (59.2, 72.5)

$50,000-$74,999

67.9 (61.0, 74.0)

68.1 (60.9, 74.5)

$75,000 or More

66.7 (60.1, 72.6)

70.6 (63.9, 76.6)

Education

Less than High School 48.8 (43.3, 54.3)

65.4 (59.8, 70.7)

High School Graduate 54 (50.1, 57.8)

64.7 (60.8, 68.3)

Some College

59.4 (54.6, 63.9)

69.3 (64.5, 73.6)

College Graduate

61 (56.7, 65.1)

68.6 (64.4, 72.5)

a The proportion of adults 65+ years that had a seasonal flu shot within the past year.

b The proportion of adults 65+ years that have ever had a pneumonia shot.

Percent (%) Percent (%)

Percent of Adults aged 65+ years who recieved Vaccinations, by Race/Ethnicity, Georgia, 2011

100

80

71.9

59.2 60

40

54.4 43.7

Flu Shot in Past Year Pneumonia Vaccine
47.2 41.3

20

0 White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic

Hispanic

Percent of Adults aged 65+ years who recieved Vaccinations, by Level of Education, Georgia, 2011

100

80

65.4

60

48.8

40

64.7 54

69.3 59.4

Flu Shot in Past Year Pneumonia Shot
68.6 61

20

0 Less than High SchoHoilgh School Graduate Some College College Graduate

Percent of Adults aged 65+ years who received the Flu Shot, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent Influenza Shot
<50% 50-<55% 55-<60% >=60%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

Percent of Adults aged 65+ years who received the Pneumonia Shot, by Health District, Georgia, 2011

2 1-2 1-1

3-4

3-1

10

3-2 3-5

3-3

4 5-2

Percent Pneumonia Shot
<60% 60-<65% 65-<70% >70%
6

7 5-1

9-1 9-2

8-2

8-1

33

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