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The behavioral risk factor surveys: II. Design, methods, and estimates from combined state data
E M Gentry1, W D Kalsbeek, G C Hogelin
1Division of Nutrition, Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, GA 30333.
American Journal of Preventive Medicine
|November 1, 1985
Summary
Behavioral risk factor telephone surveys provide affordable public health data. These surveys accurately estimate chronic drinking and smoking prevalence, crucial for monitoring health trends.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Survey Methodology
Background:
- Leading causes of death are linked to behavioral risk factors.
- Accurate prevalence data is essential for public health interventions.
- Previous data collection methods were often costly and time-consuming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish baseline prevalence estimates for adult behavioral risk factors.
- To assess the feasibility and accuracy of telephone surveys for public health surveillance.
- To provide national-level data for state-specific comparisons.
Main Methods:
- Conducted nationwide Behavioral Risk Factor (BRF) telephone surveys across 28 states and DC.
- Utilized complex sampling designs and computed sample weights for national estimates.
- Supplemented surveys covered remaining states (excluding Hawaii) for comprehensive data.
Main Results:
- National prevalence estimate for chronic heavier drinking was 8.7%, closely matching NIAAA's 1979 estimate (9%).
- Prevalence estimate for current smokers was 31.5%, comparable to the 1980 Health Interview Survey (32.6%).
- Telephone survey estimates demonstrated similarity to more expensive in-person interview data.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral risk factor telephone surveys are a practical and affordable method for public health surveillance.
- This survey approach is effective for initial prevalence data gathering and trend monitoring.
- Telephone surveys offer a viable alternative for tracking key public health concerns.