The Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) is a set of surveys that track behaviors that can lead to poor health in students grades 9 through 12. The results help in understanding the factors that contribute to the leading causes of illness, death, and disability among youth and young adults.
The 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey found that although the prevalence of substance use among students declined from 2019 to 2021, alcohol remained the most-used substance.
The data also reveal that:
- More than 1 in 5 high school students reported consuming alcohol in the past 30 days.
- Approximately 1 in 10 high school students reported binge drinking.
- Alcohol use among girls was more common than among boys, as was binge drinking.
- Students who identified as LGBTQ+ reported a higher prevalence of current alcohol use and binge drinking compared with students who identified as being heterosexual.
- Black students reported a lower prevalence of current alcohol use compared with White and Hispanic students.
More 2021 data are available on the YRBS website, including state and national comparisons. Use these data to update slide decks or any other materials with the new statistics. Consider sharing the national and state data and trends with partners, potential partners, and community leaders. Disseminate information about evidence-based, population levels solutions, like those in the Community Guide.
