Description

For sample adults age 18 and over who have had their cholesterol level checked (or don't know whether they have had their cholesterol level checked) and were advised to change eating habits to lower their cholesterol (CHOLDIETADV), CHOLDIETFOL reports if the person was following the advice at the time of survey.

This variable was part of annual supplements (Adult Prevention in 1998; Year 2000 in 1993; Health Promotion and Disease Prevention in 1990 and 1991). For related variables, please use the IPUMS NHIS search function and drop-down menus.

Comparability

Prior to 1991, persons were asked if they, "made any lasting changes in the types of foods" they ate in order to lower cholesterol. Beginning in 1991, persons were asked if they were following the advice of a doctor or health professional to change their eating habits to lower cholesterol.

Changes in survey design (e.g., quarters in which the supplement was collected) may affect raw frequencies, but do not affect comparability of the variable. As always, data users should use the prescribed IHIS weights.
Apart from these changes, this variable is comparable for 1991 forward.

Universe

Availability

• 1990-1991, 1993, 1998

Weights

• 1990-1991, 1998 : SAMPWEIGHT
• 1993 : SUPP2WT