Overview of the Navajo Youth Risk Behavior Survey
The Navajo Youth Risk Behavior Survey (NYRBS) is a vital tool used to understand the health behaviors and experiences of youth across the Navajo Nation and surrounding communities. First implemented in 1993, the survey is conducted every three years, except for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The NYRBS collects data on priority health risk behaviors that contribute to the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among adolescents in grades 6 through 12. These behaviors fall into six categories:
- Unintentional injuries and violence
- Sexual behaviors
- Alcohol and drug use
- Tobacco use,
- Dietary behaviors
- Physical activity
Purpose of NYRBS:
The NYRBS measures youth behaviors and experiences to better understand risk levels among adolescents. The survey was developed by health experts and aligns with national health objectives. Questions focus on students’ behaviors and experiences rather than their knowledge or beliefs.
NYRBS data are used to:
- Determine the prevalence of health behaviors
- Assess trends in health behaviors
- Examine the co-occurrence of health behaviors
- Provide comparable data among national, state, territorial and associated tribal and local entities
- Monitor progress toward achieving Healthy People objectives
The NYRBS results are used to:
- Raise awareness of youth health risk behaviors
- Inform the development of programs and set measurable goals
- Strengthen school health education and teacher training
- Support health-related policies and legislation
- Secure funding for school and community health programs
- Build support for future surveys and ongoing data collection
Using the NYRBS Dashboard
The dashboard helps users explore trends, identify priority areas, and guide programs, policies, and actions to improve the health and well-being of Navajo youth.
To improve transparency and accessibility, the dashboard includes trend data from 2017-2023, highlighting both improvements and areas of concern. This interactive tool allows users to track changes over time, identify emerging issues, and recognize progress. These insights support data-driven decision-making for schools, health professionals, community leaders, and policy makers.