U.S. National Center for Health Statistics

The National Center for Health Statistics' Web site is a rich source of information about Americas health. As the Nations principal health statistics agency, we compile statistical information to guide actions and policies to improve the health of our people. We are a unique public resource for health information-a critical element of public health and health policy. Working with partners throughout the health community, we use a variety of approaches to efficiently obtain information from the sources most able to provide information. We collect data from birth and death records, medical records, interview surveys, and through direct physical exams and laboratory testing. NCHS is a key element of our national public health infrastructure, providing important surveillance information that helps identify and address critical health problems. Here at NCHS, information is at the core of our mission and our Web site is a vital part of our effort to make this information work for you. Our site is designed to provide you with quick and easy access to the wide range of information and data available from us. We include an overview of our major data collection activities, present our data findings, and provide information about special activities and initiatives to improve access to--and the quality of--health statistics information. Our Web site has links to additional sources of health information and provides a way for you to query us electronically to obtain answers to your specific questions.