2019 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey Data

The 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) data show there is still more work to do to help students establish lifelong healthy behaviors. The data also show more work can be done in our nation’s schools to improve the health and safety of children and adolescents. During 2009–2019, there were significant decreases in the percentage of students who consumed soda or sports drinks one or more times per day and less than three glasses per day of plain water. However, other dietary and physical activity behaviors have not improved during the last 10 years and in some cases have worsened. In 2019, although 57.4% of students had played on one or more sports team during the past 12 months, less than half of students had been physically active for 60 or more minutes per day on all 7 days (23.2%). The data support the need for multicomponent approaches, including policy and environmental changes and opportunities for adolescents to learn about and practice making healthy choices. Efforts in schools can be coordinated through the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child model, which promotes collaboration among diverse partners to support health and well-being for all students.