A survey was conducted in Illinois to identify the risk of certain health problems among adolescents; to determine the health status of Illinois youth in relation to the Surgeon General's "Healthy People 2000 Objectives" and monitor progress toward national and state goals; and to help those working at national, state, and local levels develop effective prevention and intervention strategies. The Illinois Adolescent Health Survey was completed by 4,305 9th-graders from 38 public schools, an 82% response rate. The questionnaire examined the areas of safety, accidents, and injuries; mental health and suicide; fighting and violence; alcohol, tobacco and other drug use; sexual behavior; nutrition and eating habits; and exercise. The data indicated that in terms of health and risk-taking behaviors, 9th-graders in Illinois are remarkably like their counterparts throughout the rest of the United States. It is encouraging that 87% of the students had received health education and 94% had received substance abuse education. On the other hand, one-third or more had not received either abstinence education or contraceptive education. It is unrealistic to expect that a single semester of health education or a single unit in health education can dramatically offset poor health behaviors established over several years or supported by pressure from peers and the media. Nevertheless, these data do demonstrate the need for comprehensive effective programs for Illinois youth. (ABL)