National Human Adipose Tissue Survey

United States program

Also known as: NHATS

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July 19, 2026

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The National Human Adipose Tissue Survey (NHATS) was a United States program that ran from 1970 to 1992. It aimed to test individuals for levels of fat-soluble environmental contaminants. The program obtained fatty tissue from living persons through minor surgical procedures and also analyzed postmortem fat specimens.1

NHATS data revealed the presence of persistent organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the general population. The survey also indicated a decrease in certain toxic chemicals over time, correlating with regulations introduced by the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976. Adipose tissue itself is a connective tissue composed mainly of fat cells, specialized to store fat. It plays roles in insulation, energy storage, and hormone production.12

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biomonitoring
Detection of chemicals
…Protection Agency (EPA) ran the National Human Adipose Tissue Survey (NHATS) to test people for levels of fat-soluble environmental contaminants. The EPA used a minor surgical procedure to obtain fatty tissue from living persons and also analyzed postmortem fat specimens. Analyses of the NHATS data documented a significant presence in…
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…Protection Agency (EPA) ran the National Human Adipose Tissue Survey (NHATS) to test people for levels of fat-soluble environmental contaminants. The EPA used a minor surgical procedure to obtain fatty tissue from living persons and also analyzed postmortem fat specimens. Analyses of the NHATS data documented a significant presence in…
Read More