Monday, May 23, 2005
County Executive Dennis Levinson has announced that Atlantic County adolescents are healthier than they were just 5 years ago, as reported in the findings of the recent Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Study conducted by the Atlantic County Division of Public Health.
"I am pleased to learn that the overall health of our children has improved," remarked Levinson. "Our programs appear to be having a positive impact. Atlantic County teens are making decisions for healthier lives."
The study surveyed more than 1,300, ninth and eleventh grade students, at seven Atlantic County high schools in October, 2004. The students answered questions about personal safety, weapons and violence, depression and suicide, tobacco, alcohol and drug use, sexual activity, body image, diet and nutrition, physical exercise and other health related topics. These results were compared to the previous 1999 survey findings as well as to the 2003 national averages from the same survey.
The study revealed a decrease in the number of Atlantic County teens engaging in typically risky behavior, such as using marijuana, driving while drinking, and riding with a driver who had been drinking. It also found youth more likely to wear a seatbelt today than five years ago, in addition to lower rates of sexual activity, fewer teens smoking cigarettes, and an increase in academic achievement and community volunteer work. In comparison to their peers, Atlantic County youth were found to have better attendance in physical education classes and watch less television.
"The results show many areas of progress made by our adolescents to achieve healthier lifestyles," said Patricia Diamond, Atlantic County Health Officer. "We will continue to work with the community and area health care providers to improve the lives of young people in Atlantic County."
The Division of Public Health collaborated with many area agencies to complete the survey including: Atlantic Cape Community College, Atlantic City Department of Health and Human Services, AtlantiCare Health System, Bacharach Institute for Rehabilitation, Kessler Memorial Hospital, Shore Memorial Hospital, and United Way of Atlantic County.
For copies of the study or for further information, please contact the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at (609) 645-5935.