Collect reliable, population-based data on the behavior risks of the youth adult population of South Dakota. Data collected will be used to plan, implement, and monitor disease prevention efforts. - Project Abstract The State of South Dakota has collected data on self-reported health behaviors and associated risk factors for youth (grades 9 to 12) since 1991 when partnerships were formed with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to collect risk factor data. For 33 years, the State of South Dakota has been implementing the CDC’s existing Youth Risk Factor Survey (YRBS) as well as additional state added questions. While health monitoring is conducted at the national level, these surveillance systems often do not adequately describe the health risk behaviors and health status of South Dakotan youth. Geographically, many of our youth reside in rural areas with minimal resources easily available. Accordingly, the South Dakota Department of Health and its program and partners depend on the YRBS to collect reliable and timely data specific to our state and youth. The SDDOH and its Office of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (OCDPHP) use YRBS data to monitor the health status, health risk behaviors and health disparities of South Dakotan’s youth. The data also serves as an indicator to these plans and is monitored annually to measure progress toward meeting these goals and objectives. YRBS data is also used to prioritize efforts, develop targeted intervention strategies, and access the effectiveness of these strategies at reducing health disparities and improving overall health for our youth. Additionally, YRBS data is used to track performance measures on CDC grants and is shared with SDDOH and program partners such as South Dakota Department of Education (SDDOE). The youth of South Dakota will be given a voice to ensure they are provided with protective factors through evidence-based programming to reduce the risk factors demonstrated in the YRBS. An overall goal of improving mental health, reducing suicide rates, lowering substance abuse, lowering sexual risk, and improving quality of life thus creating healthier adults.
