Study: Southern Tier Counties Face health Challenges

Out of 62 counties in New York State a new health ranking from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and  University of Wisconsin place Broome County near the bottom of the heap at 51 for health outcomes.

Broome ranked marginally higher than the state percentages for things like adult smoking, adult obesity and children in poverty.

Surrounding Southern Tier Counties ranked a little better with Tioga County coming in at 36 for health outcomes and Chenango County at 32.

In New York State, Rockland County ranked at the top for health outcomes.

Broome, Tioga and Chenango Counties all had higher than the New York State numbers for premature deaths.

Officials interpreting the figures say the Southern Tier economy plays a large role in an impact on health and lifestyle choices.