Laboratory data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) have been used to assess the impact of the environmental on health, assess the nutrition of the population, assure adequate immunization of the public, identify the burden of selected infectious diseases and provide an assessment of many chronic conditions in the population. In NHANES 99+, over 230 different laboratory analyses are performed on seven biologic specimens collected from each survey participant. These specimens are measured by 23 separate laboratories. For a laboratory test to be included in the survey, a consensus must be obtained on the appropriateness of the analytical technology to be used , and the scientific merit and public health importance of the laboratory test must be established. Continuity of all procedures used throughout the survey, especially in the laboratory, is an essential part of the rigorous quality-assurance system necessary to ensure high quality data for statistical analysis. The topic areas and laboratory assays included in the present survey will be discussed with a description of specimen collection, processing, shipping and analysis including the quality control information needed to provide a long term measure of the laboratory results. Specific laboratory issues that arise in a mobile examination survey such as NHANES will also be addressed.
Learning Objectives: At the end of this presentation, participant will be able to articulate the content, field, and quality control issues related to the NHANES laboratory components
Keywords: Infectious Diseases,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.