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Nebraska high school students appear to be engaging less in several of the risky behaviors that worry parents and others, according to the results of a statewide youth survey released Monday.

Alcohol and tobacco use and alcohol-impaired driving, in particular, have declined over the past 20 years, especially since 2005, according to Nebraska's 2011 Youth Risk Behavior Survey.

The number of students who reported smoking during the most recent month stood at 15 percent in 2011, continuing a downward trend. Similar declines were reported in the number of students who had smoked in their lifetime, those who had used alcohol in the preceding 30 days and those who reported drinking and driving in the preceding 30 days.

Dr. Joann Schaefer, the state's chief medical officer, said she was "happily surprised" to see the declines.

The survey results, she said, also should reassure parents and community groups that their efforts can work.