Empowering American Samoa: Targeted BRFSS Data Collection for Health Equity - Project Abstract: Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Program for American Samoa Department of Health Title: Enhancing Health Surveillance and Equity through the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) in American Samoa Applicant: American Samoa Department of Health Population Served: Approximately 50,000 residents across 7 islands, with 5 inhabited Program Duration: 5 years Funding Requested: [Specify Amount] Program Overview: The American Samoa Department of Health seeks funding to implement the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Program, aimed at monitoring health risk behaviors, chronic health conditions, and the use of preventive services among adults in American Samoa. This initiative is crucial for advancing health equity and informing public health policies and interventions in a population spread across multiple islands with unique challenges. Objectives: Collect comprehensive health-related data through standardized telephone interviews, focusing on risk behaviors, chronic conditions, preventive service usage, and demographics. Implement modernized processes and innovative sampling strategies to enhance data collection and analysis. Strengthen partnerships with community stakeholders to address health priorities and improve data representation of under-represented communities. Increase awareness and use of BRFSS data among local health programs and policymakers to guide public health actions that promote healthy lifestyles and health equity. Methodology: The program will utilize a standardized telephone questionnaire under the BRFSS surveillance system, ensuring consistency with national data collection efforts. Data will be collected annually, with a targeted sample size based on the population, to allow for meaningful analysis and comparison. The program will also explore modern methodologies such as web-based surveys to complement traditional data collection methods. Expected Outcomes: Improved monitoring of health-related risk behaviors and chronic health conditions. More timely access to BRFSS data for local areas, enabling responsive public health interventions. Increased knowledge and awareness of BRFSS data among under-represented communities, leading to more inclusive health programs. Enhanced health-focused policies at local and territorial levels, with a special emphasis on addressing disparities in under-represented communities. Collaboration and Partnerships: The program will involve collaboration with various stakeholders, including community advisory groups, local health programs, and strategic partners, to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach to health surveillance and intervention. Sustainability and Impact: By establishing a robust BRFSS program in American Samoa, the Department of Health aims to create a sustainable framework for ongoing health surveillance, data-driven decision-making, and targeted interventions that address the unique health challenges of the territory's diverse population. Budget Justification: The requested funding will cover costs associated with data collection, staffing, technology upgrades, community outreach, and program administration, ensuring the successful implementation and sustainability of the BRFSS program in American Samoa.
