Health Resource Capacity Assessment for Putnam, Connecticut, May 2001

Health Needs/Barriers to Care: Smoking

High rates of smoking in Putnam were identified in focus groups and interviews as a prime health concern. Providers stated that children begin smoking at an early age in Putnam. In a survey of Putnam 5th and 6th grade students, 11% reported smoking cigarettes, far higher than the rate among students statewide (7%). ⁶⁷ Focus group participants noted that many parents smoke, serving as poor role models, and that parents under stress have no time to talk with children about risky behaviors (see Parental Stress Section).

A need for smoking cessation programs and supports was identified by several stakeholders. Day Kimball Hospital has recently instituted a smoking cessation program in response to community and staff requests, but will not accommodate all the need.

Footnotes

67. Connecticut Substance Abuse Prevention Student Survey, Putnam Public Schools, Health Services Research Unit, Dept. of Community Medicine & Health Care, UConn Health Center, DMHAS, 4/30/99.