Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS)
Gathering data to guide programs and improve the health and safety of Alaska’s youth
Who we are
The Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) is a Division of Public Health program that conducts a survey in high schools across Alaska every other year. This survey asks students about their health, health habits, and behaviors that put them at more or less risk for various health outcomes. YRBS is part of a national program coordinated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
What we do
The Alaska Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) collects data from thousands of high school students across the state about their health habits and experiences. Because the information comes directly from Alaska’s youth, the YRBS gives a clear picture of the successes and challenges they face. The data help address leading causes of death, injury, and key issues like mental health and bullying. Alaska’s Departments of Health, Education and Early Development, and many other organizations use the data to improve programs and services, secure funding, guide policies, and to conduct more research to improve the health of Alaska’s youth.
Every other year survey
High school students across Alaska take the YRBS survey during the spring semester of odd-numbered years after school districts collect parental permission forms and share survey information. Participation is crucial to the success of the survey. Student participation in the YRBS is anonymous, voluntary, and requires written parental consent. A parent or guardian must give permission for their child to participate by signing a consent form sent home by the school. For information on how to participate in the YRBS survey, visit the YRBS Survey page.
For technical information about YRBS data collection and data handling, please contact us at doh.yrbs.info@alaska.gov or visit the YRBS Data Dashboard.
Stay updated
Get updates on new data, reports and events by subscribing to the Alaska YRBS listserv.
Alaska YRBS Listserv