The CDC surveys below provide data on health education and services provided by schools and health practices that youth engage in. Together, the data offers opportunities for those working in schools to support both academic success and improved health outcomes for youth. The Center administers both surveys for the CDC on behalf of the NYS Education Department in opposite years. 

Links Between Health and Academics - Why Profiles and YRBS Data Matters to Schools
CDC data from the National Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) shows that students with higher grades are less likely than their peers with lower grades to participate in certain risk behaviors. This data can show the need for funding, training, prevention programs, and raise awareness of health issues.

CDC School Health Profiles (Profiles) Information and Resources
The School Health Profiles (Profiles) assesses school health policies and practices in states, urban school districts, territories, and tribal governments. They are conducted every two years. Middle and high school principals and the lead health education teachers complete a self-administered questionnaire at each sampled school. Data from individual schools is kept confidential. 

CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) Information and Resources - *2025 NYS YRBS Survey Materials
The Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) also called the YRBS, is a nationwide survey that monitors students' health risks and behaviors related to weight and diet, physical activity, injury and violence, tobacco use, alcohol, and other drug use, and sexual behaviors. It also monitors the prevalence of obesity and asthma. The survey is conducted every two years for students in grades 9–12. Data from individual students and schools is kept confidential. 

NYSCSH Facts about the YRBS and Profiles

NYSCSH video with information about the CDC YRBS and Profiles surveys (1/29/25)

NYSCSH Facts about the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) and School Health Profiles (Profiles) survey

Additional Surveillance Studies

• Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) 
  The CDC BRFSS is a state-based system of health surveys that collects information on health risk behaviors, preventive health practices, and health care access related to chronic disease and injury. For many states, the BRFSS is the only available source of timely, accurate data on health-related behaviors for adults 18 years of age and older. National and state-specific reports can be accessed here. 
• Morbidity and Mortality Data
  The CDC publishes annual mortality data on the 10 leading causes of death in the United States by age, sex, race, and ethnicity in National Vital Statistics Reports.
• National Youth Tobacco Survey (YTS)
  A survey of 7th-12th grade students that is conducted by the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) at no cost to participating schools.
• Commercial Tobacco and E-Cigarette Reports. Youth Tobacco Survey (YTS)
  Commercial Tobacco and E-Cigarette Reports. State and local health departments periodically conduct a YTS among a representative sample of high school students.   

Page Updated 1/29/25