CDC Survey Indicates Prescription Drug Abuse Among High School Students

Approximately one in five high school students in the United States reported taking prescription medication without a doctor's authorization, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data comes from the 2009 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS).

The CDC released the findings of the survey today.

The YRBS provides data on health risk behaviors among youth in the U.S., serving as a key resource for understanding and addressing adolescent health issues. The survey's data allows public health officials to identify trends and implement programs designed to prevent harmful behaviors and promote well-being among young people.