Data were obtained from the CDC’s BRFSS; a yearly, national survey that collects data via cellular and landline telephone interviews among adults 18 years and older. The BRFSS uses a multistage sampling design to acquire data on health-related domains from non-institutionalized civilian populations residing in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and three U.S. territories (Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). The BRFSS has three overall modules: 1. core modules are sets of survey questions consistently administered to all states and territories, 2. optional modules which consist of CDC developed questions that states can include in their survey, and 3. state-added questions, which include customizable items developed by each state coordinator. Only the core modules are publicly available. ACEs data was collected as a part of the optional modules. As of 2018, 41 states collected ACE data. It should be noted that several states have collected 2018 data for the first time, however, this data is typically not available until at least 2 years after collection.
