Background/Purpose: The Colorado State Epidemiological Outcomes Workgroup (SEOW) is a network of state agencies and data experts that collaborate to examine the patterns, context, and impacts of substance use to inform prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts across Colorado. In 2021, the Colorado SEOW conducted a statewide needs assessment with public health and prevention professionals that identified a strong need for timely, localized substance use data to support community decision-making. In response, the Colorado SEOW developed Health Statistics Regional Profiles. This presentation highlights key data from the 2026 profiles as a practical resource for local public health professionals, coalitions, and community organizations.
Methods: The Regional Profiles include publicly available statewide and regional surveillance data from multiple public health and partner agency sources. Indicators include youth and adult substance use prevalence, risk and protective factors, alcohol and cannabis outlet density, prescription rates, mental health indicators, treatment utilization, and fatal and nonfatal overdose trends. Data were compiled and analyzed to identify regional patterns and emerging trends across Colorado. The publications are then reviewed by public health and subject matter experts for context and data visualization to ensure the data are easily digestible for all Coloradans interested in talking with their communities about substance use trends.
Results: The 2026 Regional Profiles provide accessible, community-level insights into substance use trends. Findings demonstrate regional variation in substance use behaviors, behavioral health indicators, and prevention resources, highlighting the importance of localized data in informing targeted public health responses.
Implications:
Attendees will gain awareness of emerging substance use trends at both the state and regional levels and learn how to apply the Regional Profiles to support grant writing, community assessments, program planning, policy development, evaluation, and local prevention initiatives.
