Statewide Iowa — The annual report from United Health Care says Iowa dropped one spot to 16th in the nation for women and children’s health.
United Healthcare medical director Lisa Saul says Iowa has a high percentage of women who receive early prenatal care, and it’s also notable that Iowa ranks well nationally when it comes to low infant birth weights.
Another strong point for the state is the low percentage of households that don’t get enough food.
The report found Iowa struggles with substance use among women including high rates of smoking during pregnancy and excessive drinking in general. It’s the organization’s seventh annual report.
