Survey finds top health concerns in Mississippi

State health leaders say concerns over obesity, rising costs and access to care highlight challenges facing Mississippi families.

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Updated: 10:21 PM CDT Aug 15, 2025

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A new survey from the Mississippi State Department of Health shows obesity, rising healthcare costs, and gun violence are among the state’s top health concerns.The report also highlights growing fears that proposed Medicaid cuts could limit care for older Mississippians and even force some nursing homes to close.Beyond health care, residents cited the cost of living, jobs, and crime as the biggest obstacles to improving their overall quality of life.State health leaders said they plan to use the survey findings to help guide future programs and policy decisions.

A new survey from the Mississippi State Department of Health shows obesity, rising healthcare costs, and gun violence are among the state’s top health concerns.

The report also highlights growing fears that proposed Medicaid cuts could limit care for older Mississippians and even force some nursing homes to close.

Beyond health care, residents cited the cost of living, jobs, and crime as the biggest obstacles to improving their overall quality of life.

State health leaders said they plan to use the survey findings to help guide future programs and policy decisions.