Download Data

Purpose

To illustrate the principles and instructions when preparing an environmental chemical analytic dataset, we have created a full program titled “Phthalate” as an example.

In order to create and use the program called “Phthalate”, you will first download the data files.  The data files are available from the NHANES website as SAS transport files (.XPT). The SAS transport format allows data files to be extracted on Windows-, UNIX-, or Macintosh-based systems (this tutorial focuses only on Windows-based systems).

Task 1: Create a Directory

You will create a folder for storage of files, and download the data files following the steps outlined in the Continuous NHANES Web Tutorial.

• Key Concepts about Creating a Directory
• How to Create a Directory

Task 2: Download Data Files, Laboratory Manuals, and Documentation

You will download the NHANES data transport files for creating your analytic dataset. You will also download the Documentation and Laboratory Procedure Manuals for reference when you conduct your analysis.

• Key Concepts about Downloading Data Files, Documentation, and Laboratory Procedure Manuals  
• How to Download Data Files, Documentation, and Laboratory Procedure Manuals 

Task 3: Extract or Import Datasets

After downloading the SAS transport files, extract the data and save them as SAS datasets in a SAS-accessible library. A library is a folder that you designate on your computer to store your SAS files. Transport files can not be converted to usable SAS datasets without completing this task.

• Key Concepts about Extracting and Saving NHANES Data Files in a SAS-Accessible Library
• How to Extract and Save NHANES Data Files in a SAS-Accessible Library