Doctors: 1 per 362 people

Major causes of death: Cancers, heart, cerebrovascular, and respiratory diseases

US researchers lead in pioneering new treatments. Sophisticated techniques are available to those with insurance (which they typically receive, at least in part, from their employer); the Texas Medical Center has a budget equivalent to that of some small countries. On the other hand, costs have skyrocketed, and facilities for those dependent on state medical care are woefully underfunded. Infant mortality rates in some areas are at levels more commonly found in developing countries. Notable health campaigns have focused on smoking, which is now banned in public places in many major cities. Around 30% of the population is clinically obese, and obesity kills nearly as many people as smoking. Abortion is a highly sensitive issue; unborn fetuses were covered as separate individuals under new legislation in 2004.

From "The Financial Times World Desk Reference" © Dorling Kindersley 2004