How are you? The Health of the Danish population under investigation
More than 300,000 Danes are being asked about their health and well-being in a new, large-scale survey. The results will serve as a foundation for better prevention efforts and other initiatives where the need is greatest.
Today marks the launch of the Danish National Health Survey 2025, How Are You? – a comprehensive survey of the health and well-being of the Danish population. Over 300,000 randomly selected citizens aged 16 or older will be invited to answer questions about everything from smoking habits and physical activity to diseases and mental well-being.
The survey is being conducted for the fifth time since 2010 in collaboration between the five Danish regions, the Danish Health Authority, and the National Institute of Public Health. The purpose is to create an overall picture of the Danish population’s health and well-being — both in areas where progress is being made and where challenges persist.
"This survey is a unique opportunity to monitor how health and well-being of Danes change over time and to assess health and well-being among different groups within the population, based on factors such as age, gender, and education. This knowledge is crucial for targeting preventive efforts and ensuring better treatment for the Danish population," explains Anne Illemann Christensen, Research Director at the National Institute of Public Health.
High response rate is essential
The insights gained from the survey will help tailor prevention efforts to those who need them most. To ensure accurate and representative results, it is crucial that as many people as possible participate.
"The more people who participate, the better we can understand where the challenges lie and how best to address them. That’s why we hope that everyone who receives the questionnaire in their digital mailbox or by postal mail will take the time to respond—regardless of whether they are healthy or ill," says Anne Illemann Christensen.
Previous results have made a difference
The Danish National Health Survey plays a key role in highlighting areas where health challenges exist.
The most recent survey, conducted in 2021, revealed a significant increase in poor mental health among young people. It also showed that smoking and alcohol consumption remain widespread issues in this group. These insights have since helped shape new prevention initiatives and increased attention to youth well-being.
The results of the 2025 survey are expected to be published in March 2026.
Previous survey data is already available at www.danskernessundhed.dk.
The survey is part of a broader agreement between Danish Regions, Local Government Denmark (KL), the Ministry of Health and Elderly Affairs, and the Ministry of Finance.
About the survey
- Check if you’re included: The How Are You? questionnaire is sent to 300,000 randomly selected citizens aged 16 and over. You will receive it in your digital mailbox (e-Boks). If you do not have a digital mailbox, it will be sent as a letter instead. The questionnaire is sent either from your region or from the National Institute of Public Health.
- Voluntary participation: Participation is voluntary, but your response is important and helps create a comprehensive picture of the health and well-being of the Danish population.
- Chance to win prizes: Everyone who completes the questionnaire will be entered into a prize draw.
Contact: Research Director Anne Illemann Christensen, Phone: +45 4079 2222, Email: anch@sdu.dk. National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark