Posted on Categories Utah Women and Violence / The Utah Sexual Assault Safety Project ↓

Appropriate Services for Rape Victims in Utah Hospitals

Background

A recent study by the Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice [1] indicated that 12-13% of Utah women reported being raped at some point in their lives. Nationally, CDC estimates suggest that 1 in 6 women (16.6%) report experiencing an attempted or completed rape at some point in their lives.2 In 2003, 793 rapes were reported in Utah. Since it is estimated that only 20% of victims report the crime to law enforcement in the state [1], the actual number may approach 4,000 rapes each year. The consequences of rape include unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease, including HIV. An estimated 5% of sexual assaults result in pregnancy, and 33% may results in sexually transmitted disease [2]. Public health and other expert recommendations include counseling all sexual assault patients at risk of pregnancy about emergency contraception and providing it as an option on-site. Treatment for sexually transmitted diseases should also be discussed and offered [3].

Methods

In order to determine if Utah hospitals are meeting these standards, a coalition of health care and advocacy groups (the Utah Sexual Assault Safety Project) contacted all 42 Utah hospitals with emergency departments. Surveys were completed with 41 of those hospitals. Telephone interviews were conducted with emergency room personnel most familiar with the protocols for sexual assault patients. Most often this was a sexual assault nurse-examiner (SANE nurse) or the nurse manager. The survey consisted of 10 open- and close-ended questions designed to determine the services that are provided routinely to victims of sexual assault [3].

Results

Only 60% of sexual assault victims receive consistent and appropriate services on-site. (See Figure 1). Most Utah hospitals are providing treatment for sexually transmitted diseases (STD) to sexual assault victims. (See Figure 2).

Figure 1: Emergency Contraception (EC) Policies for Rape Victims at Utah Hospitals
Figure 2: Provision of Prophylactic STD Medications for Rape Victims in Utah

Summary and Needs

Hospital emergency departments are often the first contact victims have when seeking help, and it is therefore critical that emergency room personnel provide rape victims with comprehensive services that include emergency contraception as well as the diagnosis and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases. This survey indicates that there is room for improvement: 40% of the emergency departments in Utah do not consistently meet the standard for treating rape victims.

The Utah Sexual Assault Safety Project will provide information and training to hospitals that do not currently provide comprehensive services to victims. There should be additional funding and training to increase the number of SANE nurses where primary treatment occurs.

References

  1. Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice Research and Data Unit. “Rape in Utah: A Survey of Utah Women’s Experience”. 2005. Available from http://www.justice.utah.gov/Research/SexOffender/RapeInUtah.pdf. Accessed 11/14/06
  2. National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease control. “Sexual Violence” 2006. Available from www.cdc.gov/ncipc/factsheets/ svfacts.htm. Accessed 11/14/06
  3. 2002 national guidelines on the management of adult victims of sexual assault. National Guideline Clearinghouse. Available from: http://www.guideline.gov/summary/summary.aspx?ss=15&doc_id=3050&nbr=2276 Accessed 11/14/06.
  4. Survey and Data by the Utah Sexual Assault Safety Project, Fall 2005. Available from http://www.acluutah.org/ecreport.pdf. Accessed 11/14/06

Posted on Categories Utah Women and Violence / Emogene Grundvig, MSW ↓

Dating Violence

Background

Recent statistics indicate that dating violence has increasingly become a problem in the United States. Dating violence can be defined as, “consisting of verbal, emotional, psychological, physical, or sexual abuse of one person by another in a dating relationship” [1]. Additionally, 40% of adolescent girls ages 14-17 know someone their age who has been physically abused by a dating partner, and 33% of adolescent girls report experiencing physical violence themselves from a dating partner (Figure 1) [2].

Utah Data

One form of dating violence, that has increasingly become a problem, is drug facilitated sexual assault. In Utah, drug-induced rape has increased among adolescents. A Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice study conducted in 2005 found that 1.8% of Utah women reported being a victim of a drug facilitated sexual assault [3]. In the United States, drug facilitated rapes are responsible for 70% of sexual assaults reported among adolescent and college aged women, and 38% of those women are between the ages of 14 and 17 (Figure 2) [2]. Many drug facilitated sexual assault perpetrators used drugs such as alcohol, gamahydroxybutyrate (GHB), rohypnol, and ketamine to weaken or incapacitate their victims [4].

Figure 1. Physical Violence Among Adolescent Dating Relationships.
Figure 2. Percentage of Drug Facilitated Sexual Assault Reported among Adolescent and College Aged Women

The Physical and Psychological Consequences of Dating Violence

The psychological and physical consequences of dating violence can be extremely damaging and potentially life threatening to its victims. Victims of dating violence may have physical injuries such as lacerations, broken bones, bruises and internal bleeding. Various other physical ailments may include gastrointestinal problems, gynecological issues, headaches, central nervous system disorders, and circulatory or heart problems [5]. Adolescents who are subject to dating violence often experience serve psychological consequences such as depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, low self-esteem, severe fear of intimacy, and an inability to trust men [6]. Additionally, victims of dating abuse are more likely to have substance abuse problems, eating disorders, poor academic achievement, engage in risky sexual behaviors, and attempt, or complete suicide. Dating violence may often be the precursor to domestic violence, and adolescents in abusive relationships often transfer abusive behavior into future relationships [7].

Services

If you suspect dating violence, contact the Utah Domestic Violence Link Line at 1-800-897-LINK (5465), or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

References

  1. Utah Code/Constitution. Available online at http://www.livepublish.le.state.ut.us/lpBin22/lpext.dll?f=templates&fn=main-j.htm&2.0. Accessed October 15, 2006.
  2. The National Center for Victims of Crime: Dating Violence Factsheet. Available online at http://www.ncvc.org/ncvc/AGP.Net/Components/documentViewer/Download.aspxnz?DocumentID=38057. Accessed October 11, 2006.
  3. Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice. Rape in Utah. Available online at http://www.justice.utah.gov/Research/SexOffender/RapeInUtah.pdf. Accessed October 13, 2006.
  4. Utah Department of Health. Violence & Injury Prevention Program: Sexual Assault. Available online at http://health.utah.gov/vipp/rapeSexualAssault/overview.html. Accessed October 14, 2006.
  5. National Center for PTSD: Factsheet. Available online at http://www.ncptsd.va.gov/facts/specific/fs_domestic_violence.html#Anchor-Harway-46919. Accessed October 16, 2006.
  6. National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. Intimate Partner Violence: Fact sheet. Available online at http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/factsheets/ipvfacts.htm. Accessed September 16, 2006.
  7. National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. Dating Abuse: Factsheet. Available online at http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/dvp/DatingViolence.htm. Accessed October 11, 2006.
Posted on Categories Utah Women and Violence / Emogene Grundvig, MSW ↓

Elder Abuse

Background

Of all the baby girls born in 2001, 50% will live to be 100 years of age. Additionally, persons 80 years of age and older are the fastest growing population in our society, which raises concern because of the increasing problem of elder abuse [1]. Utah Code defines elder abuse as “…abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an elder adult,” who is a person 65 years of age or older. For Utah, elder adults are categorized as “vulnerable adults,” or one who may have difficulty “providing personal protection; providing necessities such as food, shelter, clothing, or mental or other health care; obtaining services necessary for health, safety or welfare; carrying out activities of daily living; managing the adult’s resources; or comprehending the nature and consequences of remaining in a situation of abuse, neglect or exploitation” [2]. Further, Utah has a mandatory reporting law such that anyone who knows about but does not report elder abuse is “…guilty of a class B misdemeanor” [2].

Utah Data

In 2004, Utah’s Adult Protective Services (APS) received approximately 3,500 referrals, of which 2,431 were for elder maltreatment of both men and women. Of these referrals 59% of the elderly individuals involved were women and 44% of these women had experienced a prior referral. Forty-five percent of the allegations were for neglect, 33% for abuse, and 22% for exploitation (Figure 1) [3]. In terms of the elderly (those individuals 60 years and above) who were involved in a referral to APS, 14% were ages 60 to 69, 22% were ages 70 to 79, 24% were ages 80 to 89, and 6% were 90 and older. Thus, the risk of elder maltreatment increases with age [3].

Figure 1. Elder Maltreatment in 2004. Source: Adult Protective Services.

Risk Factors

Certain characteristics make the elderly an easy target of abuse. These characteristics include: loneliness, cognitive impairment/dementia, physical impairment, misguided trust, and isolation. In addition, 30% of the victims are physically handicapped, 14% have mental health issues, 12% have family violence/discord, and 10% are developmentally delayed. As shown in Figure 2, other indicators are noted as well [1].

Figure 2. Factors Contributing to Elder Abuse. Source: Adult Protective Services

The Physical and Psychological Consequences of Elder Abuse

There are certain physical indicators that an elderly person is being abused: unexplained bruises/burns, dehydration/malnutrition, soiled clothing/linen, and isolation. Additionally, there are indicators of neglect (by self or others): untreated bedsores/sores, decayed teeth, dirty clothing/environment, availability of necessities (food, water, sanitary needs), isolation, and death. Indicators of exploitation are unusual bank activity, recent changes in property title(s), new acquaintances living with the elder, sudden increase in debt, and decrease in lifestyle [1]. Women who are subject to elder abuse, often experience severe psychological consequences such as a low self-esteem, limited social skills, fear, shame, guilt, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and alienation [4].

Services

If you suspect elder abuse or neglect, contact Adult Protective Services (APS) Intake at: 1-800-371-7897. If a vulnerable adult is in immediate danger, dial 9-1-1 or your local law enforcement agency.

References

  1. Power Point presentation given by Chuck Diviney at the College of Social Work at the University of Utah, Spring 2006.
  2. Utah Code/Constitution. Available online at http://www.livepublish.le.state.ut.us/lpBin22/lpext.dllf=templates&fn=mainj.htm&2.0. Accessed September 20, 2006.
  3. A Multivariate Analysis of Eight Years of Utah Data on Elder Abuse and Neglect: Grant Proposal. College of Social Work at the University of Utah.
  4. National Center on Elder Abuse: Emotional Distress and Elder Abuse. Available online at http://www.elderabusecenter.org/default.cfm?p=emotionaldistress.cfm. Accessed October 1, 2006.
Posted on Categories Utah Women and Violence / Emogene Grundvig, MSW ↓

Domestic Violence

Background

Domestic violence is one of the most common crimes in the United States. Each year, 1.5 million women in the United States are physically assaulted by an intimate partner, and 10 million children will observe intimate partner violence in their families [1]. Utah Code defines domestic violence as “…any criminal offense involving violence or physical harm or threat of violence or physical harm, or any attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit a criminal offense involving violence or physical harm, when committed by one cohabitant against another.” Further, Utah Code requires health care professionals to identify victims of domestic violence, and to intervene on their behalf [2].

Utah Data

In Utah, domestic violence is one of most rapidly escalating violent crimes. The Utah Department of Health’s Violence and Injury Prevention Program (VIPP) estimates that each year, 40,000 Utah women are physically abused by an intimate partner and 194,000 women experience emotional abuse [1]. Further, the Utah Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS) stated that in 2005, 4,678 allegations of domestic violence were reported. It is estimated, that 1 in 5 Utah children will hear or witness verbal abuse, and 1 in 14 children will hear or witness physical abuse. In 2005, DCFS reported that 2,686 women (45%), 3,173 children (54%), and 32 men (1%) utilized domestic violence shelters in Utah (Figure 1) [3].

Psychological and physical consequences of domestic violence can be extremely damaging and potentially life threatening to its victims. In 2000, the Utah Intimate Partner Violence Death Review Team (IPVDRT) found that in Utah from 1994-1999, 49% of female victims of homicide were murdered by their male intimate partner. This percentage is higher than the national average of 39% (Figure 2) [4].

The Physical and Psychological Consequences of Domestic Violence

Although, a vast number of domestic violence incidents do not result in death, the victims of such violence may have physical injuries such as lacerations, broken bones, bruises and internal bleeding. Various other physical ailments may include: gastrointestinal problems, gynecological issues, headaches, central nervous system disorders, and circulatory or heart problems [5]. Women who are subject to domestic violence often experience serve psychological consequences such as depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, low self-esteem, severe fear of intimacy, and an inability to trust men [6]. In a 2005 Dan Jones & Associates study, it was reported that one in ten Utah women have considered harming themselves, and one in seventeen women have attempted suicide due to their experiences with domestic violence [7].

Services

If you suspect domestic violence, contact the Utah Domestic Violence Link Line at 1-800-897-LINK (5465), or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. If immediate help is needed dial 9-1-1 or your local law enforcement agency.

References

  1. Utah Department of Health. Violence & Injury Prevention Program. Domestic Violence. Available online at http://health.utah.gov/vipp/domesticViolence/overview.html. Accessed September 15, 2006.
  2. Utah Code/Constitution. Available online at http://www.livepublish.le.state.ut.us/lpBin22/lpext.dll?f=templates&fn=main-j.htm&2.0. Accessed September 20, 2006.
  3. Utah’s Department of Human Services Child and Family Services Annual Report 2005.Available online at http://www.hsdcfs.utah.gov/pdf/AnnualReport05.pdf. Accessed September 20, 2006.
  4. Utah Department of Health: Violence & Injury Prevention Program: Domestic Violence Homicides. Available online at http://health.utah.gov/vipp/domesticViolence/homicide.html. Accessed September 15, 2006.
  5. National Center for PTSD: Factsheet. Available online at http://www.ncptsd.va.gov/facts/specific/fs_domestic_violence.html#Anchor-Harway-46919. Accessed September 16, 2006.
  6. National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. Intimate Partner Violence: Fact Sheet. Available online at http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/factsheets/ipvfacts.htm. Accessed September 16, 2006.
  7. Dan Jones & Associates. Domestic Violence: Incidence and Prevalence Study 2005. Available Online at http://www.udvc.org/2005DanJonesExecutiveSummary.pdf. Accessed September 10, 2006.

Posted on Categories Utah Women and Health Risk Factors / Laurie Baksh, MPH ↓

Obesity in Women

Background

Women in Utah are becoming heavier and obesity is emerging as a major public health crisis. Obese adults are at increased risk for developing hypertension, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, asthma, osteoarthritis, and cancers of the colon, breast, endometrium, kidney and esophagus (1). Only smoking exceeds obesity as the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S. The Healthy People 2010 goal is for no more than 15% of adults to be obese. In females, Utah exceeds this goal by more than 5%.

Obesity is calculated using the Body Mass Index (BMI) (2), which is a measure of body fat based upon height and weight and applies to both men and women. Obesity is defined as having a BMI of 30 or greater.

Obesity Rates for Females Ages 18 - 65. Utah BRFSS Data, 1995 - 2005

Obesity rates among Utah women are slightly than lower the U.S. rates, 20.2% in Utah vs. 23.5% in the U.S. in 2005 (3). The U.S. rate has increased 57.8% since 1995 while Utah’s rate has increased 49.6% in the same time period.

Utah data vs. the U.S. How are we doing

Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data from 2005, indicate that 20.2% of women aged 18 – 65 reported a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or greater. Rates of obesity were lowest in females aged 18 – 34 and highest in those aged 50 – 64.

Risk Factors

Eating and exercise habits play into weight management. 2005 Utah BRFSS data show that 79.8% of women reported no physical activity and 44.8% said they did not meet recommendations for moderate or vigorous physical activity (30 minutes of moderate activity five times per week or 20 minutes of vigorous activity three times per week). Only 29.1% of women report eating five or more fruits and vegetables a day. Twice daily fruit consumption was reported by 38.4% of women and consumption of vegetables three times a day by 28.6% of women. The high rates of obesity combined with the low rates of fruit/vegetable consumption and low exercise cross all races/ethnicities.

Obesity, Eating, and Exercise by Race/Ethnicity 2005 BRFSS Data

Services

In May 2006, the Utah Department of Health, in conjunction with Governor Huntsman, published “Tipping the Scales Toward a Healthier Population: The Utah Blueprint to Promote Healthy Weight for Children, Youth, and Adults.” This publication offers comprehensive strategies for obesity prevention from families to health care systems. The publication can be found at health.utah.gov/obesity/docs/ObesityBlueprint.pdf.

References

  1. BMI is calculated with the following formula: (weight in pounds/height in inches2) X 703.
  2. Bureau of Health Promotion. Tipping the Scales Toward a Healthier Population: The Utah Blueprint to Promote Healthy Weight for Children, Youth,
    and Adults. Salt Lake City, UT: Utah Department of Health 2006.
  3. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. September 15, 2006/55(36); 985-988.
    BRFSS data retrieved on 12/30/2006 from Utah Department of Health, Center for Health Data, Indicator Based Information System for Public Health
    website: http://ibis.health.utah.gov.
Posted on Categories Utah Women and Health Risk Factors / Lois Bloebaum, BSN, MPA ↓

Insurance Coverage among Utah Women

Compiled by Lois Bloebaum BSN, MPA

Background

Women without health insurance are less likely than those with coverage to receive preventive healthcare services at appropriate ages. Receipt of preventive healthcare services such as prenatal care, mammograms and PAP screenings are correlated with improved outcomes and decreased morbidity and mortality; and yet the percentage of Utah women with insurance coverage to pay for these preventive healthcare services is declining.

How Are We Doing? (Utah Data Versus the U.S.)

Over the past ten years, the percentage of persons in Utah and in the U.S. who lacked insurance coverage has increased. United Health Foundation’s (UHF) America’s Health, State Health Rankings 2005 report ranks Utah 23rd among states for percentage of residents with health insurance.1 According to the 2005 Utah Health Status Survey (HSS) 14.8% of adult Utah women are uninsured, a 37% increase since 2001 (10.8%).

Lack of insurance coverage may be affecting Utah women’s compliance with recommended preventive health screenings; only 69.1% of women (age 40 & over) received a mammogram in the past two years and only 80.1% of women received a pap smear in the past three years according to Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data compared to 75.9% and 86.4% respectively across the nation as a whole.

Insurance Coverage among Women of Reproductive Age, Utah 2001-2005. Source: Utah Department of Health’s Health Status Survey

Another women’s preventive healthcare service that may be affected by lack of insurance coverage is early entry into prenatal care for pregnant women. According to Utah PRAMS (Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System) data, over 20% of Utah women entered prenatal care after the first trimester and the most commonly cited reason was “I didn’t have insurance or enough money to pay for care”. The Healthy People 2010 goal for early entry into prenatal care is set at 90%, a benchmark that Utah has yet to reach.

Risk Factors

The 2005 Utah HSS data indicate that the characteristics of Utah women who are more likely to be uninsured include:

  • Lower education levels
  • Lower socioeconomic levels
  • Being unmarried
  • Being of Hispanic ethnicity
  • Being unemployed and/or a student
Insurance Coverage among Utah Women by Ethnicity, 2005. Source: Utah Department of Health’s Health Status Survey

What is Being Done to Address?

The Utah Department of Health administers programs to improve insurance coverage, such as Medicaid, the Baby Your Baby program, the Primary Care Network (PCN), and the new program “Utah’s Premium Partnership” (UPP), a program designed to help make health insurance more affordable for working individuals and families.

The UDOH, through its Office of Primary Care and Rural Health, also has recently awarded thirty-six health care agencies $1.4 million in grants to increase their capacity to provide primary health care to medically underserved individuals not eligible for CHIP, Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance or the Primary Care Network. The Utah Department of Health administers programs to improve insurance coverage, such as Medicaid, the Baby Your Baby program, the Primary Care Network (PCN), and the new program “Utah’s Premium Partnership” (UPP), a program designed to help make health insurance more affordable for working individuals and families.

Posted on Categories Utah Women and Health Risk Factors / Jason Kidde, MS ↓ & Robin Marcus, PT, PhD ↓

Falls and Fall-Related Injuries

Background/Significance

In the United States, approximately 10,000 annual deaths result from falls in people age 65 or older, and this same population accounts for 87% of all emergency room fractures (1,2). Although men and women report similar fall rate statistics according to the Utah Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS) data, women incur 75-80% of all fall related hip fractures and this risk increases with advancing age (1,2,3). One fourth of individuals who sustain hip fractures die within one year and nearly 50% never return to their prior level of independence (1). Additionally, individuals who fall often undergo significant psychological hardship, resulting in the fear of falling and a consequent reduction in physical activity (2). This sedentary behavior not only decreases quality of life and increases risk for falls, but it is also counterproductive for those who suffer from co-morbidities that are mitigated by physical activity. Considering that 41.3% of respondents in the BRFSS study reported poor health prior to falling, this issue is not trivial (3).

Utah Fall-Related Deaths, 2000-2004. Source: Falls Fact Sheet, Utah Department of Health Violence and Injury Prevention Program, 2005
Utah Fall-Related Emergency Dept. Visits, 2000-2004. Source: Falls Fact Sheet, Utah Department of Health Violence and Injury Prevention Program, 2005

Risk Factors

Increasing age is associated with injury-related falls. Women experience more fall-related injuries than men (1,2,3). Furthermore, muscle weakness, balance problems, diminished vision, blood pressure medications and medications causing drowsiness all increase the incidence of falls in this population. Approximately half of all falls occur within the individual’s home due to environmental obstacles such as icy steps, uneven ground, loose electrical cords, throw rugs, and other miscellaneous objects which may leave an individual prone to tripping. Considering that both physical and environmental factors increase fall risk, fall prevention programs must be multifaceted for maximal effectiveness (2).

Utah Fall-Related Hospitalizations, 2000-2004. Source: Falls Fact Sheet, Utah Department of Health Violence and Injury Prevention Program, 2005

Prevention Programs

The most effective fall prevention programs include the combination of pharmacologic modification, physical therapy/exercise interventions, and environmental modifications. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) examined fall prevention programs nation wide, categorizing them based on the extensiveness of addressing fall risk factors. The “exceptional” programs were categorized as those that “provide comprehensive education about preventing falls, home assessments and/or safety checklists, and access to home repairs.” Eighteen programs qualified for this distinction in 12 states, including one in Price, Utah (2). Addressing the physical signs of aging with exercise should also be advocated. More information on how to reduce your risk of falls is available at: www.cdc.gov/ncipc/pubres/toolkit/falls%20BrochCOLORpanels.pdf.

The Skeletal Muscle Exercise Research Facility (SMERF) and University Rehabilitation and Wellness Clinic at the University of Utah are currently conducting both clinical programs and research in the area of fall prevention. www.health.utah.edu/pt/research/index.html

Age Adjusted Nonfatal Fall Injury Rates Among Men and Women Aged 65 Years and Older, United States and Utah, 2001–2004
*Utah state data is taken from the following source: IBIS-PH website for emergency visit data. National data is taken from the following source: CDC WISQARS website. Compiled by Albert Wang, Injury Epidemiologist, Utah Dept. of Health, Violence and Injury Prevention Program.

References

  1. Utah Department of Health. Available online at http://health.utah.gov/vipp/. Accessed January 28, 2007 keywords: Utah, Violence and Injury prevention
    program, older adults.
  2. Parra EK, Stevens JA. U.S. Fall Prevention Programs for Seniors: Selected Programs Using Home Assessment and Home Modification. Atlanta, GA:
    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, 2000.
  3. Utah Department of Health. Available online at http://health.utah.gov. Accessed January 28, 2007. Search keywords: health status update, senior falls.
Posted on Categories Utah Women and Health Risk Factors / Karen Zinner, MPH ↓

Smoking

Background

Tobacco use remains the leading preventable cause of death and disease in the United States. Smoking claims more than 440,000 lives each year. It has been shown that smoking increases the risk for chronic lung disease, coronary heart disease, and stroke, as well as cancer of the lungs, larynx, esophagus, mouth, and bladder. In addition, smoking contributes to cancer of the cervix, pancreas, and kidneys. Exposure to secondhand smoke increases the risk for heart disease and lung cancer among nonsmokers. The Healthy People 2010 goal is to reduce the proportion of females who smoke cigarettes from the baseline of 22% in 1997 to the 2010 target of 12%.

Risk Factors

Cigarette smoking is more common among persons with lower levels of formal education, and among those in lower income groups. Smoking increases the risk for chronic lung disease, coronary heart disease, and stroke, as well as cancer of the lungs, larynx, esophagus, mouth, and bladder.

Percentage of Adult Females that Currently Smoke by Education Level, Utah 2005. Source: Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, Center for Health Data, IBIS, Utah Department of Health

Utah Data vs. U.S. – How are we doing?

Utah’s adult smoking rate has been the lowest in the nation for many years. In 2005, Utah’s adult smoking was 11.2% compared to the national rate of 20.6%. For adult females Utah’s rate is 9.3% compared to 19.2% nationally.

Percentage of Adult Females that Currently Smoke, Utah and U.S. 2005. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Survey Data

Services/Hotlines

The TRUTH campaign uses television, radio, billboard, and print media to target mainstream and high risk youth, adults, pregnant women, Native Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, and rural populations. The campaign’s goals are to counter tobacco industry messages, inform Utahns about quitting services, and reinforce and support local tobacco control efforts. Quitting services available to Utahns include a toll-free Tobacco Quit Line (1-888-567-TRUTH), a web-based quitting service (utah.quitnet.com), free quitting medications and counseling services for uninsured tobacco users and tobacco users on Medicaid, and group-based quitting classes for adults and youth in local communities. Efforts to protect nonsmokers from secondhand smoke focus on strengthening tobacco-free policies in apartment complexes, workplaces, schools, and outdoor venues frequented by children.

The Utah Tobacco Quit Line and Utah’s online quitting program offer assistance in quitting tobacco use to Utah adults and teens. For services and information call the Utah Tobacco Quit Line at 1-888-567-TRUTH or visit Utah’s online tobacco cessation support program at utahquitnet.com.

References

  • HP2010 Objective 27.1a
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Survey Data. Atlanta, Georgia: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, custom query accessed 1/4/07
  • Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, Office of Public Health Assessment, Utah Department of Health, custom query accessed 1/4/07
Posted on Categories Utah Women and Health Risk Factors / Karen Zinner, MPH ↓

Chronic Alcohol Consumption

Background

Chronic alcohol consumption is an indicator of potentially serious alcohol abuse, and is related to driving under the influence of alcohol. Females who drink more than seven drinks per week or more than three drinks per occasion are at increased risk for abuse. The question from the BRFSS to compare Utah and the nation is as follows: A drink of alcohol is 1 can or bottle of beer, 1 glass of wine, 1 can or bottle of wine cooler, 1 cocktail or 1 shot of liquor. During the past 30 days, how often have you had at least one drink of any alcoholic beverage? On the days when you drank, about how many drinks did you drink on the average? The Healthy People 2010 (related) goal is to reduce the proportion of females who engage in high risk alcohol consumption activities from the baseline of 72% in 1992 to the 2010 target of 50%. The Healthy People 2010 target for binge drinking in adults (ages 18 years and older) is 6.00% or less.

Figure 1. Female Binge Drinking by Education, Utah 2005. Source: Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, Center for Health Data, IBIS, Utah Department of Health

Risk Factors

Binge drinking is a problem nationally, especially among males and young adults. Alcohol abuse is strongly associated with injuries and violence, chronic liver disease, fetal alcohol syndrome, and risk of other acute and chronic health conditions. Heavy drinking among women of childbearing age is a problem because of the risk for prenatal alcohol exposure. Birth defects associated with prenatal alcohol exposure can occur during the first 6 to 8 weeks of pregnancy before a woman knows she is pregnant. According to CDC estimates, approximately 76,000 deaths in the U.S. in 2001 were attributable to excessive alcohol use. In 2005 only 1.1% (N=570) of pregnant women stated they had consumed any alcohol during their pregnancy.

Utah Data vs. U.S. – How are we doing

The percentage of adults who reported being a heavy drinker in the past 30 days was substantially lower in Utah than in the U.S. for all years reported from 2001 to 2005. In 2005, 4.9% of U.S. adults reported heavy drinking in the past 30 days while in Utah only 2.9%.reported heavy drinking. For females nationally 4.0% indicated heavy drinking and in Utah it was only 2.5%.

Figure 2. Percent of Heavy Drinkers Utah and U.S. 2005. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Survey Data.

Services/Hotlines

Utah Cares is a free, confidential on-line tool that helps find state and community services. It is available at www.utahcares.utah.gov. Or dial 2-1-1 for state and community service information. Code 2-1-1 can now be accessed from anywhere in the state of Utah. 211 Info Bank, a program of Community Services Council, is a free information and referral line for health, human and community services. 211 provides information and referral on many topics.

References

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Survey Data. Atlanta, Georgia: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, custom query accessed 12/11/06
  • Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, Office of Public Health Assessment, Utah Department of Health, custom query accessed 1/7/07
Posted on Categories Utah Women and Health Risk Factors / J. Anne Tumsatan ↓

HIV/AIDS

HIV, human immunodeficiency virus, is an infection that over time leads to the development of AIDS, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. The virus destroys the cells of the immune system eventually leading to a weakened immune system that easily succumbs to other infections and disease. Those infected with HIV may generally appear healthy and asymptomatic until the infection develops into AIDS. People get infected with the virus through contact with infected body fluids. Women generally acquire HIV through sexual contact with infected individuals or intravenous drug use. Pregnant women with HIV can infect their babies during pregnancy, at birth and through breast feeding. Treatment can be used to prevent transmission of HIV/AIDS to the baby.

Through October 31, 2006, there were 156 female HIV positive cases reported, which accounts for 18% of the HIV positive infections in Utah. The total AIDS cases, those who have progressed to AIDS based on low CD4 counts, among Utah females reported to date is 238, which accounts for 10% of the AIDS cases in Utah. Both HIV positive infections and AIDS cases for Utah women are below the nationwide trends which are 29% of HIV infections nationwide are women; and 18% of AIDS cases nationwide are women [1].

Of the HIV/AIDS cases among women in Utah, the mode of transmission has shifted from intravenous drug use to heterosexual contact. In 1996, 39.6% of the HIV/AIDS cases were transmitted through heterosexual contact; and through 2006 transmission of HIV/AIDS through heterosexual contact rose to 42% of cases among Utah women. (See Fig. 2) There also has been an increase of women not specifying the mode of transmission from 4.3% of cases through 1996 to 15% of cases through 2006 [2].

Abstaining from sexual activities and illicit drug use are the best prevention measures. To prevent transmission of HIV/AIDS, those at risk should always use a condom, never share needles, and get tested. Other prevention measures are having monogamous sexual relationships and getting tested if you have had unprotected sex with previous partners.

Many of the County Health Departments throughout Utah as well as other organizations offer HIV counseling and testing. For more information, please visit the Utah Department of Health HIV counseling and testing site at health.utah.gov/cdc/hiv_testing.htm or call the Utah Bureau of Communicable Disease Control at 801-538-6096. Free testing is available through the Utah AIDS Foundation: 801-487-2323 and the Harm Reduction Project: 801-355-0234.

Figure 1. Reported HIV/AIDS cases in Utah, by gender 1996-2006
Figure 1. Reported HIV/AIDS cases in Utah, by gender 1996-2006. Resource: Department of Health: 2004 HIV/AIDS Epidemiological Profile
Figure 2. Reported HIV/AIDS Cases Among Utah Females by Risk Group
Figure 2. Reported HIV/AIDS Cases Among Utah Females by Risk Group. Source: Women’s Health in Utah 1996 and Utah Department of Health: 2006 Utah HIV/AIDS Year-End Surveillance

References

  • Utah Department of Health: HIV/AIDS Reporting for Utah and United States. Available online at http://health.utah.gov/cdc/hivsurveillance/sp%20docs/utahusa%20123106.pdf. Accessed January 21, 2007. Search Keywords: HIV/AIDS reporting 123106.
  • Utah Department of Health: HIV/AIDS Surveillance Report for Women Utah 2006. Available online at http://health.utah.gov/cdc/hivsurveillance/sp%20docs/2006WomenEpiReport.pdf. Accessed January 21, 2007.
  • Utah Department of Health: 2004 HIV/AIDS Epidemiological Profile. Available online at http://health.utah.gov/cdc/hivsurveillance/sp%20docs/2004%20Epi%20final.pdf. Accessed December 14, 2006. Search Keywords: HIV/AIDS 2004 Profile and Utah Department of Health: 2005 HIV/AIDS Epidemiological Profile Update. Available online at http://health.utah.gov/ cdc/hivsurveillance/sp%20docs/2005EpiUpdate.pdf. Accessed December 14, 2006. Search Keywords: HIV/AIDS 2005
  • Data for 1983-2006 obtained from Women’s Health in Utah 1996. Available online at http://health.utah.gov/opha/publications/other/wmnhlth/section4.pdf. Accessed January 21, 2007. Search Keywords: HIV/AIDS.
  • Utah Department of Health: 2006 Utah HIV/AIDS Year-End Surveillence. Available online at http://health.utah.gov/cdc/hivsurveillance/sp%20docs/2006yearendstats.pdf. Accessed January 21, 2007. Search Keywords: HIV/AIDS year end report 2006.