2007 COMMUNITY HEALTH DATA ANALYSIS

Overview

Age Analysis
In 2005 Cape Girardeau County compared very similarly to the State in most all categories except it has more females 15–24. Overall the age distribution in the county has stayed stable from 1995–2005. The implications are: Demonstrates need to continue programs such as Postponing Sexual Involvement, Family Planning, Sexually Transmitted Disease clinics.

Race/Ethnicity Analysis and other Demographic Features
According to the 2000 Census Cape Girardeau County rates are much lower than the state in all categories of race and ethnicity with a county minority rate (8.3%) approximately half of the state minority rate (16.2%). From 2000-2006 the county has had a 4.7% increase in population with a larger proportion of this increase attributable to migration as opposed to natural growth. Not included in the 2000 census is the increase we have noticed of Hispanic women in not just Cape Girardeau County, but surrounding counties. Many are brought from neighboring counties as well as Cape Girardeau County to our Health Department to access Pregnancy Testing, WIC, FP, Childhood Immunizations and our Pediatric Primary Care Clinic. None speak English and must have an interpreter to be interviewed or offer services. Being both in lower income status as well as not speaking English certainly places this group in a higher risk group as it presents barriers to accessing needed health care.

Economic Indicators
In 2005 Cape Girardeau County had a slightly higher percentage of individuals living in poverty (17.9%) as compared to the state (13.35%). However, both the state and county had comparable poverty rates for children under 18 as well as similar educational rates. Cape Girardeau County has an 8% unemployment rates as compared to 6.7% for the state. These statistics suggest a worsening of the economic condition of the county. In the previous community assessment the county slightly out-performed the state in these economic indicators. This could be attributable to the growing migrant population which tends to work at minimum wage jobs. This suggests the need for economic improvement projects as well as possible assimilation programs.

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