National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) measures the health and nutritional status of adults and children in the United States and includes both interviews and physical examinations. In addition to demographic, socioeconomic, dietary, and health-related questions, the NHANES also contains medical, dental, and physiological measurements, as well as laboratory tests administered by highly trained medical professionals. A series of surveys have been conducted as part of the NHANES program since the early 1960s focusing on different populations or health topics. In 1999, the survey became a continuous program that has a changing focus on a variety of health and nutrition measurements to satisfy changing needs. A nationally representative sample of about 5,000 people is surveyed each year, and 15 counties are visited each year.

By using the results of this survey, the users will be able to identify the prevalence of major diseases and risk factors for disease. Information will also be used to assess nutritional status and its association with health promotion and disease prevention. Moreover, NHANES findings are used for establishing national standards for measurements such as height, weight, and blood pressure. This survey’s results will be used in epidemiological studies and health sciences research to help develop sound public health policies, develop health programsz, and improve health knowledge throughout the country.