The Global School-Based Health Survey was designed to provide accurate data on health behaviors and protective factors among students, including dietary behaviors, hygiene, physical activity, drug and alcohol use, and sexual behaviors. It is often used to help countries develop priorities, establish programs and advocate for resources for school health programs, policies and youth health.

In Colombia, students in grades 7-10 in a number of cities were interviewed: Bogota (1,737 students), Bucaramanga City (2,093 students), Cali City (1,945 students), Manizales (2,037 students), and Valledupar City (2,095 students).