Indianapolis ranks low in women's health

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Indianapolis is on the bottom of the list when it comes to women's health. Women's Health Magazine ranked 100 cities and Indianapolis was number 96 as one of the least healthy.

The ranking took into account 41 categories with everything from cancer rates to nutrition.

Jessica Wright lives a healthy lifestyle. Her job is to encourage others to do the same through her business Indy Adventures Boot Camp.

“I wanted something that women felt comfortable at exercising, that they had people they could talk with, and build relationships and encourage each other,” says Jessica Wright.

Wright says, she’s not surprised that the Indianapolis ranking is so low, but she believes maintaining a healthy lifestyle would help the city improve.

“If you could get your nutrition and exercise on track we would be leaps and bounds ahead,” says Wright.

Lisa Hayes with Gennesaret Free Clinics points out more health programs targeting women is key in improving the ranking.

“I think the difficulty is some women are not aware of them so even though there maybe is access, if people don't know there really isn't access,” explains Lisa Hayes the Director of Gennesaret Free Clinics.

Hayes spends her time making sure those in need are getting their yearly mammograms and pap smears. However she knows there's more to women's health than just doctor visits.

“Another big question is how are we reaching women in terms of education in ways they can reduce their risk? Whether it be for breast cancer or other illnesses and diseases that impact women,” explains Hayes.

Hayes also points out while her organization focuses on those living in poverty she says, there is a lack of resources out there for women who aren't insured or underinsured and make too much money.

“Those women in particular, if they need diagnostic services or treatment services, that is a real challenge to find the resources for them,” says Hayes.

San Francisco is number one on the list and at the bottom is Detroit.