DPH Addresses Sexual Violence

HARTFORD — State and federal health officials have joined community partners at the state Capitol to discuss the devastating impact of sexual violence, as well as prevention strategies to address this problem.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) received funding through a federal grant to build the state’s capacity to eliminate sexual violence victimization and perpetration and ensure safe and healthy communities. The approach includes the formation of the Connecticut Sexual Violence Prevention Planning Committee.

“These crimes leave deep scars — physically, emotionally, and economically,” Governor M. Jodi Rell said. “This federal grant will allow us to work closely with community partners across the state to promote greater awareness and prevention.”

According to health officials, sexual violence is a major public health problem within the state, nation, and world. One in six women and one in 33 men in the United States report experiencing an attempted or completed rape at some time in their lives.

In Connecticut:

*One in every eight women, or 13.2 percent, has been raped at some time in their lifetime.

*The State Police Crimes and Data Analysis Unit crime statistics show that 757 rapes were reported to the police in calendar year 2005, for a rate of 41.79 rapes/100,000 females.

*In 2007, 906 encounters of sexual violence were recorded at Connecticut emergency rooms

*The FBI has 658 reported cases of rape in 2007 for Connecticut, a rate of 36.52 rapes/per 100,000 The results of sexual violence can lead to chronic health problems such as headaches, stomach problems, and sexually transmitted diseases. Sexual violence can also have emotional impact.

Victims may have issues with trust and becoming involved with others. They may have depression or even attempt suicide.

The economic impact of sexual violence can be costly as well. Rape is the most costly of all crimes. Nationally, it is estimated at $127 billion a year, compared to physical assault at $93 billion, murder at $71 billion, drunk driving at $61 billion, and child abuse at $56 billion.

To contact the department, visit its website at www.ct.gov/dph or call 860-509-7270.