Louisiana ranked poorly among states in overall health, according to United Health Foundation's 2013 America's Health Rankings.
The Advocate reports that Louisiana came in at No. 48 in the annual rankings, moving up one spot from last year.
The state's strengths included high-immunization coverage among adolescents; low incidences of pertussis, or whooping cough, infections; and little disparity in health status despite differences in education levels.
But the report also showed high percentages of Louisiana residents aren't exercising, and residents have high rates of obesity and diabetes. The state also has a high percentage of children in poverty, high rates of infant deaths and a high prevalence of low birth weight.
Hawaii ranked as the healthiest state. Mississippi was in last place.
