NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) is a comprehensive and ongoing program conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) in the United States. NHANES is a nationally representative survey that aims to evaluate the health and nutritional status of the country's population.
The survey utilizes a complex sampling design and employs a combination of interviews, physical examinations, and laboratory tests to gather information about various health-related aspects, including chronic diseases, infectious diseases, mental health, nutrition, physical activity, and environmental exposures. This data is crucial for policymakers, researchers, and healthcare practitioners to monitor trends in health and disease prevalence, understand risk factors, and develop effective strategies for public health interventions.
NHANES collects data from a diverse range of individuals of all ages across the country, ensuring that findings are representative of the entire U.S. population. The program's continuous nature allows for the identification of trends and patterns over time, assisting in tracking the effectiveness of public health programs and policies. NHANES data is widely utilized in research studies, epidemiological investigations, and health program evaluations.
Overall, NHANES is a vital tool in understanding the health and nutritional status of the American population, providing critical information to inform public health policies and interventions aimed at improving the nation's well-being.
