The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, the most comprehensive study of the health and nutritional status of the U.S. population is under way in King County, including in Renton.
The survey is a unique program that monitors the health and nutritional status of the U.S. population and is used to develop effective health policies and programs. It’s also a chance for participants to gain information about their health. It runs through Nov. 21.
Each year, approximately 7,000 randomly selected residents in 15 counties across the nation have the opportunity to participate in the survey, conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS).
“NHANES serves as the nation’s ‘health check-up,’ going into communities to get health information throughout the country,” said CDC Director Thomas Frieden in a press release. “The survey is a unique resource for health information, and without it we would lack important knowledge about major health conditions.”
Individuals selected for the survey represent the U.S. population of all races/ethnicities and all ages. Respondents first participate in a health interview conducted in the respondent’s home followed by a health examination that takes place in one of three mobile examination centers.
All participants receive an examination by a physician, as well as a dietary interview, and body measurements that include height and weight. Some will be eligible for a hearing test, a scan to evaluate body fat, a breathing test, as well as a blood pressure test. The various tests and procedures depend upon the age of the participant.
No medical care is provided directly in the examination center, but a report on the medical findings is given to each participant along with an explanation from survey medical staff.
All individual information collected in the survey is kept strictly confidential, and privacy is protected by public law. Participants selected to undergo the physical examination receive reimbursement for travel expenses and remuneration of up to $125 per person.
