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State- and sex-specific prevalence of selected characteristics--Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 1992 and
E L Frazier1, C A Okoro, C Smith
1Behavioral Surveillance Branch, Division of Adult and Community Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.
Summary
State variations in risky behaviors and preventive care use were observed using the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Data highlights differences in alcohol consumption, cancer screening, and vaccination rates across populations.
Area of Science:
- Public Health Surveillance
- Epidemiology
- Health Behavior Research
Background:
- Chronic diseases and injuries are often linked to modifiable health behaviors and lack of preventive care.
- The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) is a key tool for states to monitor population health trends.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze state-specific variations in high-risk behaviors and preventive health service utilization.
- To monitor trends in modifiable health behaviors and healthcare access among adult populations.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the state-based telephone survey, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS).
- Included data from 48 states and the District of Columbia in 1992, and 49 states and the District of Columbia in 1993.
- Incorporated newly added survey questions in 1993 to expand data collection.
Main Results:
- Significant state-level variations were found in the prevalence of risky behaviors, health condition awareness, and preventive service use.
- In 1993, 4.0% of adults reported riding with an intoxicated driver; proctoscopic examination rates varied from 25.6% to 51.5% for adults >=50.
- Vaccination rates for adults >=65 showed variation, with 27.4% ever receiving pneumococcal vaccine and 49.9% receiving influenza vaccine in the past year.
Conclusions:
- Observed state variations likely stem from socioeconomic factors, state laws, and public health intervention efforts.
- Continued use of BRFSS data is crucial for monitoring health behaviors and informing public health policy.
- Analysis of BRFSS data will aid states in addressing factors contributing to chronic disease and injury morbidity/mortality.