The Internet could prove to be a boon to epidemiological science, Williams says. "Whereas these prior 'pencil and paper' questionnaires are expensive to produce, distribute, and analyze, the new broader National Health Study on the Internet will cost only pennies per person and will allow two-way interaction. It is a statistical fact that the larger the study, the greater the precision for identifying links between lifestyles and health. The goal of the study is to recruit 20 million Americans into the first epidemiological mega-survey."

The survey provides immediate benefits to those who sign up. Participants who enter their data through the Internet will receive an automatic on-the-spot analysis of their diet, physical activity, and weight. They will be re-contacted every three months for the opportunity to update their personal information and to report on their health status. At no charge, participants can choose to have their dietary analysis sent to their physicians, health counselors, or whomever they choose.