Since 1987, the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) has served as a state-specific data source for maternal and child health (MCH) issues. The dissemination of PRAMS data is an essential step in translating findings from PRAMS into public health action. We are pleased to present the eighth PRAMS Surveillance Report, a compilation of PRAMS results for various MCH indicators.

PRAMS is a population-based survey of women who deliver a live-born infant. This survey collects information on women's experiences and behaviors before, during, and shortly after pregnancy. A distinct feature of PRAMS is that it allows states to obtain population-based estimates to support their MCH programs. Thus, states participating in PRAMS gain unique and invaluable information for public health administrators, policy makers, and researchers as they develop and evaluate programs and policies to improve the health of women and children.

This current report highlights data for births occurring in 2002. It provides benchmarks, by state, for 32 MCH indicators, which can be examined across participating states and in relation to Healthy People 2010 objectives, where applicable. As in past years, we present subgroup analyses for each state by age, race, ethnicity, education, Medicaid status, and annual household income. In addition, we analyze trends over time for three periods: 1993–2002 (8 indicators), 1996–2002 (5 indicators), and 2000–2002 (19 indicators).

We hope this report will be useful to public health practitioners across the United States. We welcome your comments about the merit, design, and content of this publication.

John R. Lehnherr

Acting Director, Division of Reproductive Health

National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention