Northwest Arkansas is consistently the overall healthiest part of the state, according to an annual report conducted by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute. Both Benton and Washington Counties held the top two slots in terms of health outcomes - which is largely based on a social and economic factors.

• Health outcomes include the rate of premature deaths and how much of the population is in poor or fair health. Ranking h
  ealth factors takes into account other components such as smoking, access to exercise, children in poverty and how many doctors practice in the county.

• Although Benton County ranked No. 1 in the state, adult obesity increased from 29% to 31% in one year in the county. Washington County's obesity rate rose from 30% to 31%. But health is more than just going to the doctor. Those with higher incomes are more likely to be able to afford healthy food and live in neighborhoods where proper education and support is more readily available.

• Caught our attention: Benton and Washington County's performed well when compared to the state averages, except it seems we drink more. Benton and Washington County's had a higher excessive drinking rate than the state average.

You can view the full report HERE.