A report says Wisconsinites live longer than most Americans but there's a shortfall in some parts of state. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's new study "Building a Healthier America" analyzed health factors outside of medical care such as lifestyle, housing and education.
Health Group Director James Marks says average life expectancy in Wisconsin is 77.9 years, a little better than the national average. The state's shortest average lifespan is in Milwaukee County at 75.7 years, the longest Calumet County at 80.1 years. Although only a four year difference given health advancements, Marks says, Milwaukee County is falling way behind. He notes over the last few decades life expectancy has increased 2/10 of a year each calendar year. So by applying that principle, Milwaukee County is 22 years behind Calumet County.
The New Jersey based group says children's nutrition and education are an essential part of long term health and life expectancy.
AUDIO: Brian Moon reports (MP3 :88)
