Preventing Substance Use Problems Among Young People - A Compendium of Best Practices

Section 2 - Conclusion

Population surveys provide a broad estimate of substance use patterns in a given jurisdiction at a particular point in time. These patterns are constantly changing due to a number of factors, so the accuracy of these estimates can be expected to erode with time. It is always useful to conduct a local assessment of use and problems; however, population surveys can provide a useful starting point for understanding local youth substance use and making decisions concerning the level, timing and aims of prevention efforts.