What did we find out about our community’s health?

Overall, residents of the Farmington Valley experience better health than Connecticut as a whole. 

High educational attainment and low poverty rates combined with expansive health insurance coverage and low rates of chronic disease contribute to overall health in the Farmington Valley. 

Mental health and substance use were identified as key health issues. 

Mental health and substance use in the FVHD were health issues even before the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to be a growing concern. Evidence-based approaches can teach resilience, decrease stigma, and train community members to recognize mental health challenges.   

Rates of overweight and obesity are high.

Nearly 60% of residents in the Farmington Valley are overweight or obese. This will continue to have chronic disease implications for years to come. 

Seasonal flu vaccination is lagging.

Only about half of our population reports getting a flu shot every year. Together, we can break down barriers to getting vaccinated. 

The Farmington Valley has an aging population and experiences a higher rate of falls than the state average.

Almost 20% of our community is 65 years and older. 33% of this age group reported having fallen in the past year. With accidents as the third leading cause of death in the Farmington Valley and falls accounting for one-third of these deaths, fall prevention initiatives are critical. 

25% of homes tested in the Farmington Valley have elevated radon levels.

Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that seeps into homes through cracks in foundations. Radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths in non-smokers. Testing is necessary to detect elevated radon levels and abatement is available.