Fort Bend County health survey reveals gains — and persistent gaps
Fort Bend County’s population has grown in size and diversity over the last 50 years. By UTHealth Houston staffSpecial to Rice News Over the last half-century, Fort Bend County has grown from around 50,000 residents in 1970 to nearly 1 million in 2024. Despite increases in population, diversity and prosperity, however, many individuals and families…
By UTHealth Houston staff
Special to Rice News
Over the last half-century, Fort Bend County has grown from around 50,000 residents in 1970 to nearly 1 million in 2024. Despite increases in population, diversity and prosperity, however, many individuals and families continue to experience unmet needs. This report highlights key aspects of residents’ health, calling attention to disparities across demographic groups.
Data comes from a community health assessment conducted in fall 2024 by Rice University’s Kinder Institute and the UTHealth Houston School of Public Health at the request of the Fort Bend Health and Human Services Department. Nearly 3,500 county residents participated in the survey, and their responses have been weighted to be representative of the county’s diversity.
Key findings
- Residents’ self-reported physical and mental health were generally positive, with only 11% and 13% rating it as “poor or fair,” respectively.
- Nearly 60% reported having at least one chronic health condition. The most common issues were hypertension or high blood pressure (25%) and high cholesterol (24%).
- Eighty-eight percent of residents reported having health insurance or a similar plan to help cover medical expenses. Young adults and Hispanics were more likely than other groups to be uncovered.
- For residents who faced barriers to getting care when needed, the most common reasons were financial (e.g., too expensive, expenses not covered by insurance).
- Seventy-three percent of residents have high or marginal food security. Young adults, Black and Hispanic residents were less likely than other groups to be food secure.
Read the full report: Fort Bend County Community Health Assessment
