2005 National Health Interview Survey adds cancer topics

The public use file for the 2005 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) is now available. on the open web. The NHIS, which has been conducted annually since 1957, collects data on the U.S. population's health status, health care utilization, health habits and beliefs. It includes detailed demographic and socioeconomic characteristics for all survey participants. The basic components of the survey have remained consistent over time but new topics are added as needed. This year's survey added a special cancer section with six major sections: diet and nutrition, physical activity, tobacco, cancer screening, genetic testing and family history. Child mental health, child mental health services, and child influenza immunization were also added to the 2005 survey. The Survey is embedded in the National Center for Health Statistics site which is a part of the larger CDC.