Disease Pattern of Geriatric People of the Host Community in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh

Introduction: Diseases of elder people are a global problem. The prevalence of disease in elderly people is increasing day by day as old people often have limited regenerative abilities and are more susceptible to disease, syndromes, injuries, and sickness than younger adults. Objective: This study was conducted to identify the disease pattern of geriatric people of the host community in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. Method: A descriptive type of cross-sectional study was conducted among 381 geriatric persons in 5 selected hospitals of Cox's Bazar. The sample size was calculated in a 95% confidence interval and with a 5% level of significance. Data collection was done by using a semi-structured pre-tested questionnaire. Data quality was ensured through multiple procedures of review and cross-checking. Results: The findings revealed that a total of 32.0% had heart disease and 31% had arthritis. More than one-fifth (22.0%) of the respondents had diabetes and 18% of the total respondents had different types of communicable diseases. The occurrence of non-communicable diseases in geriatric people is significantly associated with their age and sex. Conclusion: The findings from this study illustrate that non-communicable disease is very much prevalent among the geriatric population as well as a threat to public health. The hospitals and health service providers should emphasize the management and prevention of these diseases. Also, lifestyle modification can play a vital role in preventing non-communicable diseases.