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California State of Public Health Report

The California State of Public Health Report comes out every two years. It's published under California Health and Safety Code (HSC) 101320.3. The report is supported by the Future of Public Health funding.

Explore the full 2026 State of Public Health Report (PDF, 21 MB) Get the 2026 State of Public Health Report Highlight (PDF, 1.5 MB)

What Goes into the Report?

The report uses health information to show us the major causes of death and injury in our state. It shows the trends in these issues over time. The report also explains how the health of one community may be different from another. These differences are often unfair and avoidable.

This report is part of the California State Health Assessment and Improvement Plan (SHA/SHIP). Public health uses the SHA/SHIP to better understand our health and plan for how to improve.

How Do We Use the State of Public Health Report?

The report highlights ways we can work to improve health for all Californians. From there, we can come up with plans to address key issues.

It helps our teams:

Track health issues – We get a clear understanding of what’s affecting the health of Californians.
Respond quickly – We have a better idea of where to allocate our resources.
Showcase progress – Gives us concrete numbers on how we’re making a difference.

2026 State of Public Health Report

California’s population health landscape in 2026 reflects decades of progress. 

Californians are living longer:  

Life expectancy is at a record high.

Deaths from cancer and heart disease are at record lows.

After years of increase:

Overdose deaths finally went down in 2024 after rising for 14 years.
Rates of sexually transmitted infections, like syphilis, are dropping.

  However, there's still work to be done. Areas we're working on improving include:

Prevention and promotion of behavioral health. 
Pregnancy-related deaths and complications.
Life expectancy and health differences that are unfair and preventable.

Explore the full 2026 State of Public Health Report (PDF, 21 MB) Get the 2026 State of Public Health Report Highlight (PDF, 1.5 MB)

2026 State of Public Health Testimony

In addition to a written report, a yearly verbal update is given to the California Legislature. This happens during budget hearings. It's presented by the CDPH Director and California State Public Health Officer.

In February 2026, Dr. Erica Pan shared the 2026 State of Public Health update.