BACKGROUND: Back pain is a popular disease in general population as well as in workers. School students handle heavy bag and keep awkward postures during class long time. However, the prevalence of back pain among students and the risk factors associated with back pain are not well known. METHODS: In this study, we assess the frequency of risk factors for back pain among 2,717 high school students. From April 2001 to May 2001, using a self-reported questionnaire, we collected data on occurrence of back pain and potential risk factors for back pain. RESULTS: Fifteen percent of high school students reported having daily back pain for a week or more during the past 12 months. Female students had a higher prevalence of back pain than males(OR=2.22, 95% CI 1.69-2.91). Using a multiple logistic regression model, we found six factors associated with back pain for females; alcohol(OR=1.75, 95% CI 1.26-2.45), depression(OR=1.75, 95% CI 1.84-2.28), poor physical health(OR=2.57, 95% CI 1.84-8.58), obesity(OR=0.29, 95% CI 0.12-0.68), exercise(OR=l.50, 95% CI=1.07-2.16), and good performance(OR=l.50, 95% CI 1.05-2.18). Only alcohol, however, associated with back pain for males(OR=1.70, 95% CI 1.05-2.77) CONCLUSIONS: High school students had a relatively high prevalence of back pain. Students with alcohol consumption had the higher risk for back pain.