Health Resource Capacity Assessment for Putnam, Connecticut, May 2001

Health Needs/Barriers to Care: Exercise, Nutrition and Obesity

Recurring concerns voiced by many in the Putnam community centered on the related issues of poor nutrition, physical inactivity, and resulting obesity. Providers stated that, in their experience the problem is growing and is particularly critical among youth. The US Centers for Disease Control has labeled childhood obesity an "unprecedented epidemic." ⁶⁸ Less than half of Putnam students passed all four physical fitness tests during the 1999-2000 school year (42.7%). While this is similar to the state average, it is far below the goal. ⁶⁹  Connecticut adults are more likely to have been advised by a health professional to lose weight than national averages, and the rate is greater among low income respondents. ⁷⁰

Several child care providers noted poor food choices as a serious health concern among their families. One observed that "kids are eating chips and Coke for breakfast and we wonder why they can't learn." Reasons given for poor nutrition included both lack of information and time constraints (see Parental Stress section). Focus group parents stated that they don't have time to shop for and prepare nutritious meals, to exercise, or to monitor their children's meals and activity.

Several residents and providers described the work of the local Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program as excellent in promoting healthy eating habits among their clients. Many residents, both parents and children, stated that Putnam needs more active extracurricular options for children beyond competitive athletic programs. Students noted needs ranging from plowing sidewalks so people can walk in the winter to elaborate playspaces available during afterschool hours and vacations.

Footnotes

68. “Promoting Better Physical Health for Young People Through Physical Activity and Sports,” Centers for Disease Control, 11/29/00.
69. Strategic School Profile 1999-2000, Putnam School District, CT Dept. of Education.
70. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey, US Centers for Disease Control, 1998.