On the surface, a survey of more than 1,500 students from 36 high schools around Colorado might leave you thinking that, overall, teenagers believe they are healthy and safe (EdNewsColorado). But the kids’ answers reveal a less certain conclusion. For instance, just 47 percent say they get a good workout at least five days a week, a figure that’s close to the number of kids attending a physical education class at least one day a week (45 percent). Just 24 percent are eating at least five fruits and vegetables a day, although that’s up from 19 percent in 2005.

Meanwhile, the number of teens reporting they’ve had sex at least once in their lives is about 40 percent, nearly the same as in 2005. But violence among teen couples is rising: 9 percent of youths report being hit by a partner, up from 6 percent, and nearly one-fifth of students report being bullied. Teens are smoking and drinking a little less, but use is still widespread (72 percent have tried alcohol; 43 percent cigarettes).