Chronic morbidity levels and associated factors among older adults in western Nepal: A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Objective: The growing prevalence of chronic morbidity among Nepali older adults reflects the need for studies exploring the patterns and determinants for evidence-based public health strategies. This study evaluated chronic morbidity levels and the associated factors.

Methods: A cross-sectional study recruited 612 participants (≥ 60 years) from all three ecological regions in Gandaki province, Nepal. Chronic morbidity level was derived as the cumulated presence of eight chronic conditions: coronary heart disease, hypertension, stroke, diabetes, cancer, respiratory issues, musculoskeletal conditions, and depression, and then creating three groups: no morbidity, single morbidity and multimorbidity. Ordinal logistic regression analyzed factors associated with morbidity levels, and findings are presented in adjusted odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). All ethical standards were properly followed.

Findings: About 40% of total participants reported having single morbidity, while 25% had multimorbidity. Participants above 70 years (OR: 1.68, CI: 1.18-2.38) and older women (OR: 2.34, CI: 1.53-3.58) reported odds of being in a higher morbidity category than their counterparts. Older adults without healthcare visits within a year had 90% lower odds (OR: 0.10, CI: 0.06-0.15) of being in a higher morbidity category.

Interpretation: This study underlines the importance of regular healthcare visits, recommending that older adults undergo timely screenings for early diagnosis and effective management. It also emphasizes the need for increased public awareness and health promotion initiatives focused on chronic disease prevention activities within the older population. Additionally, investigating gender-specific factors may provide deeper insight into effective public health interventions.