Risk Behavior Survey Data to Be Shared

In 2014, data was recorded for the 2014 Youth Risk Behavior Survey and on June 22, 2016, the key findings of the survey will be presented during a town hall meeting from 6 to 7:30 pm at the St. Mary’s County Public Schools Central Administration Office at 23160 Moakley St. in Leonardtown, MD.

The town hall meeting will be hosted jointly by the St. Mary’s County Health Department and St. Mary’s County Public Schools.

The national, school-based survey is conducted by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention through a partnership with local and state education, health, and government agencies. The survey serves as a basis to monitor the behaviors of high school students that can put them at risk for health problems, as well as contribute to the leading causes of death, disabilities, and social problems for youth and young adults. The survey monitors suicide; tobacco use; alcohol, and other drug use; sexual behavior; violence; nutrition and diet, and exercise.

St. Mary’s County’s high school students were part of the survey, which was conducted in 2014. The students who voluntarily participated were asked to complete an anonymous, self-administered questionnaire about their health behaviors. The survey was created to protect the privacy of students, and it adhered to local parental permissions procedures.

“The aggregate YRBS data will help us identify the most pressing health concerns affecting our adolescent youth,” said Dr. Meenakshi Brewster, health officer for St. Mary’s County. “This information then guides community-wide efforts to provide our youth and families the services they really need.”

St. Mary’s County residents are encouraged to come to the town hall meeting. They will be able to review the results of the survey and get information on what action is being taken here to address the issues that were found.

To learn more about the survey, visit the CDC website.

For more information and one-click access to a full list of resources available at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital, visit their Leader Page.