New report highlights health challenges for women in Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – A new report highlights several health challenges facing women across Kentucky.

The Kentucky Commission on Women released the report during Women’s History Month, outlining concerns about maternity care access, cancer mortality, and mental health among women in the Commonwealth.

According to the report, nearly 17% of women in Kentucky live in what is known as a maternity care desert. The state also ranks 46th in the nation for maternity care access.

The report further found that Kentucky has the highest cancer mortality rate among women in the United States, and that high school girls in the state are experiencing rising mental health challenges.

Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman says the findings should encourage women to advocate for their own health.

She says if something does not feel right, women should speak up, ask questions, and request additional follow-ups or medical testing when needed.

Despite the concerns, the report also highlighted some positive trends. Officials say 92% of Kentucky women between the ages of 18 and 44 now have medical insurance coverage, and the diabetes rate among women in the state is close to the national average.

The full report is available online at women.ky.gov.