NHANES has several strengths that make it invaluable for epidemiological research:
Representativeness: The survey uses a complex, multistage probability sampling design, making its findings generalizable to the U.S. population. Comprehensive Data Collection: By combining interviews and direct physical examinations, NHANES provides a more complete picture of health and nutritional status than surveys relying solely on self-reported data. Longitudinal Trends: NHANES has been conducted since the early 1960s, allowing researchers to track health trends over time.