National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (Nhanes)

The objective of the NHANES dermatology component is to assess the prevalence of psoriasis, hand dermatitis, and a skin type descriptor (Fitzpatrick skin type) in the U.S. adult household population. There are major gaps in knowledge about the frequency, impact, etiology, and prevention of most skin diseases. Skin diseases are a frequent cause of disability, discomfort, disfigurement, and expense to the United States population. An estimated one in three Americans has a skin condition at any one time serious enough to warrant a visit to a physician. Although there are some variations, these disorders are generally indiscriminate regarding gender, age, or race. Information from previous surveys suggests that the frequency and outcome of some of these disorders have changed over time due to environmental factors and the changing composition of the U.S. population. The two skin conditions included for study in the NHANES are: psoriasis and hand dermatitis.