Abstract
To support program planning for a local health foundation whose mission is health promotion, a survey consistent with the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) was conducted in El Paso County, Texas. A total of 1,010 adult participants were interviewed in either English or Spanish. Age-adjusted prevalence estimates of several health indicators were compared to statewide and national BRFSS estimates. Data were presented to the community in an open forum, and community groups were invited to propose interventions to improve the health of El Pasoans. Several differences in risk factors were noted in El Paso as compared to the state of Texas. These local data were useful in the development of intervention programs, which are now being evaluated. This survey identified opportunities for public health interventions and was useful for raising community awareness of health behavior issues. It proved affordable both for surveillance and program building.
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