Description

For sample adults, MACDEGENEV reports whether a physician or other health professional ever diagnosed the person as having macular degeneration. Please see the Universe tab for changes in MACDEGENEV's universe over time.

The Field Representative's Manual defined macular degeneration as "when the macula, which is a small area in the eye where vision is sharpest, deteriorates. Central vision declines, making it difficult to do close work such as reading or recognizing faces. The person may still have side vision." This definition was not routinely shared with persons.

Comparability

In addition to changes in universe, the NHIS questionnaire was substantially redesigned in 2019 to introduce a different data collection structure and new content. For more information on changes in terminology, universes, and data collection methods beginning in 2019, please see the user note.

Universe

Availability

• 1999, 2002, 2008, 2016-2017, 2023

Weights

• 1999, 2002, 2008, 2016-2017, 2023 : SAMPWEIGHT