A report has named New Mexico the riskiest state in the U.S. KRQE-TVreports Trust for America's Health released its annual survey Tuesday ranking the Land of Enchantment as the state with the highest death rate due to preventable injuries.
Nearly 2,000 people in the state die every year from a drug overdose, car accidents and other preventable circumstances, according to the report. That is double the national average. A state Department of Health official says New Mexico's high poverty rate and highway culture contribute to drug use and road deaths.
Officials say some preventive strategies have already been put in place such as a statewide prescription drug take-back program.