March 2023 Newsletter
Everybody Counts!
Dads Count.
A new Fatherhood Experiences Survey will collect novel data on men’s health and behaviors of men transitioning into fatherhood. This study will contribute to understanding men’s impacts on maternal and child health outcomes and identify opportunities to improve men’s health.

In this article, Hannah Hanson and Grace Njau of the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, introduce the new study and explain its contribution to the more comprehensive 'Family Health' approach, rather than siloed approaches to 'Men’s Health' and 'Maternal and Child Health', that could provide valuable information used to improve programming, policy, and health for the whole family. 
Students Count.
The use and/or abuse of substances, such as alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, by children and youth poses health and safety risks to them, their families, their schools, and their communities. According to the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) administered to high school and middle school students throughout the U.S., some unhealthy behaviors such as alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and unhealthy sexual behaviors decreased among North Dakota high school students from 2011 to 2021. 
Older Adults Count.
Research demonstrates that older volunteers are the most likely to receive physical and mental health benefits from their volunteer activities. In, 2021, more than one-third of North Dakota older adults (age 65 and older) performed various volunteering activities.

Among older adults, which age group was more likely to volunteer in North Dakota in 2021?
Counting All Data Updates.
Data is frequently updated. Make sure you check back often for the newest data available! 

AGING

CHILDREN & YOUTH

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

DISPARITIES