We track the risk behaviors that can lead to death, disability, and social problems with youth and adults in the United States. The data we collect is an important tool for decision-making by DSHS, the Texas Education Agency (TEA), and the public health community. In fact, health authorities rely on our data to find public health problems, design policy, and measure progress toward goals.

Our findings also help track the Healthy People 2030 objectives for smoking, obesity, drug use, sexual activity, and other risk factors. That data allows us to see the long-term impact of health promotion programs. 

Much of the questionnaire is standardized under the direction of the CDC. As a result, we can make comparisons to other states, cities, and the nation as a whole.

We’re funded by a CDC grant from their Division of Adolescent and School Health (DASH). 

The Health Surveys User Group (HSUG) was established to bring together internal and external Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) and School Health Profiles survey partners to discuss the implementation of these two biennial surveys. This group advises the Community Assessment Team (CAT) at the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) on questionnaire development and data collection for the two surveys, which includes data analysis, interpretation, use, and reporting.

If you would like to be added to the HSUG, email YRBSS@dshs.texas.gov.

YRBS and Profiles HSUG Meeting Calendar