National Health Survey Launches in Waco–McLennan County

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The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), the nation's only comprehensive health assessment program, has launched in Waco–McLennan County, Texas. The survey will operate from a Mobile Examination Center parked at the Waco–McLennan County Public Health District for three months, recruiting residents to participate in surveys and medical examinations in exchange for up to $160 in compensation.

Why it matters

NHANES data has driven significant changes in medical practice and public policy, helping experts develop and direct public health policy and design health programs and services across the nation. The survey examines the nutritional status and health of the U.S. population, providing crucial insights that influence dietary guidelines, chronic disease research, and environmental health protections.

The details

The examination process includes health interviews, dietary assessments, dental exams, body measurements, and laboratory tests performed by trained medical professionals. Researchers use the collected data to measure the nutritional status of U.S. adults and children, examining what participants eat, drink, and take as supplements. About 5,000 adults and children across the United States participate in NHANES each year, with a random, scientific selection process to ensure participants accurately represent the health and nutritional status of the nation's diverse population.

• The NHANES program will operate in Waco–McLennan County for about 3 months.
• NHANES has been conducted continuously since 1999, allowing the program to focus on different health and nutrition measurements to meet changing public health needs.

What’s next

Residents interested in participating in NHANES can contact the Waco–McLennan County Public Health District for more information about the survey and compensation details.