In this longitudinal study, there were a baseline examination and annual examinations. Data collected included: physical examination; anthropometric measurements; dietary information including food pattern and nutrient intake; physical activity; lipid, lipoprotein, and apolipoprotein profiles; family socioeconomic status; and psychosocial information. The study was renewed twice to continue the longitudinal investigation until the subjects reached the age of 19 to 20. Following the girls until that age allowed the documentation of the transition in risk factors when Black girls no longer have a cardiovascular risk advantage and to study the factors surrounding the transition. The longer follow-up also allowed for studies on the influence of smoking on body weight and the relationship of adolescent pregnancy to subsequent adiposity development, body fat patterning, blood pressure, and blood lipids.