Which term describes the collection of data by a public health system that includes surveillance of health behaviors at the state level?

• A. BRFSS
• B. CMS
• C. Vital Statistics
• D. Commissioned Corps

Answer: (A)

The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System is the term that fits this description. It’s a state-based data collection system that surveys adults about health behaviors (like smoking, physical activity, and drinking), along with some chronic conditions and preventive service use, to monitor trends and guide public health actions at the state level. This focus on behavior surveillance at the state level is what sets it apart from the other options. Vital statistics collects data on births, deaths, marriages, and divorces. CMS handles Medicare and Medicaid programs and related data. Commissioned Corps refers to the public health service workforce, not a data collection system.