Understanding how DHS surveys are conducted and how we present the data.
The Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) Program has conducted more than 400 surveys in over 90 countries since 1984. These nationally representative household surveys provide data for monitoring and impact evaluation of population, health, and nutrition programs.
DHS surveys use a stratified two-stage cluster sampling design. The first stage involves selecting enumeration areas (clusters) with probability proportional to size. The second stage involves systematic sampling of households within each cluster.
Data are collected through face-to-face interviews with women aged 15-49 and men aged 15-59. Surveys also include biomarker collection such as HIV testing, anemia testing, and anthropometric measurements for children.
AfricaData presents key indicators from DHS final reports. We focus on clarity and accessibility, using visualizations and plain language to make complex statistics understandable. All data points link back to official DHS sources.