What is the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS)?
The BRFSS is a statewide telephone survey conducted by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The survey is for adults aged 18 and older and gathers information about health, health risk behaviors, preventive practices, and health care access.
The CDC collects national BRFSS data in all 50 states as well as the District of Columbia and three U.S. territories. It is the largest and longest-running health survey system in the world.
What topics are covered in the survey?
The BRFSS asks about a variety of health-related topics including health status, access to health care, preventive health practices, and behaviors related to leading causes of illness, injury, disability, and death.
It also asks a series of socio-demographic questions including sex, age, race/ethnicity, marital status, employment status, county of residence, number of children in the household under 18 years of age.
Are there any sensitive or personal questions?
Some questions may be considered sensitive or personal by some participants; however, participants can always refuse to answer any question.
How are the BRFSS data used?
BRFSS data are used for many purposes including:
- Assessing risk for chronic diseases, some infectious diseases, and injuries
- Identifying demographic differences and trends in health-related behaviors
- Designing, monitoring and evaluating health interventions and services
- Creating policies to address critical and emerging health issues
- Proposing legislation for health initiatives
- Measuring progress toward achieving state and national health objectives
Who collects BRFSS data in Massachusetts?
DPH works with a survey research company, ICF International, to conduct the BRFSS in Massachusetts.
How can I know if the call is legitimate or a scam?
The survey system uses the caller ID "MA DEPT HLTH". If you have concerns about the legitimacy of the call, you can ask the interviewer to provide you with contact information for a survey coordinator at DPH. The coordinator can verify whether the call you received was from the Massachusetts BRFSS.
Is my information kept confidential?
Yes, all information collected during BRFSS interviews is confidential. Participants are never asked for their name, address, or other personal information that can identify them. The phone numbers called as part of the BRFSS are randomly generated and are kept completely separate from any survey responses.
How are survey participants selected?
A set of computer-generated random phone numbers with Massachusetts area codes are produced monthly, year-round. For cell phones, any eligible adult who answers is asked to participate. For landline phone numbers, one adult in the household will be randomly selected and asked to participate.
How long is the survey?
Survey calls last 30 minutes on average.
Do I have to participate in the survey if I am called?
Your participation is entirely voluntary.
Why should I participate?
We want to ensure that we accurately represent all types of adults in the state, regardless of health status. By participating, you perform a valuable public service to your family, community, and state.
Who can I contact for additional questions or more information?
Email DPH-HealthSurveys@mass.gov to get in touch with a BRFSS coordinator.