A study on morbidity pattern among the geriatric people of Venkatachalem village, Nellore District, AP
Background: Health problems of the old people are a very important component of any healthcare delivery system. Age related changes in immune system and degenerative phenomenon render people susceptible to a variety of infections, neoplasia and other disabilities. Objectives: To study the morbidity...
| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications
2013-01-01
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| Series: | MRIMS Journal of Health Sciences |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://www.mrimsjournal.com/article.asp?issn=2321-7006;year=2013;volume=1;issue=2;spage=48;epage=53;aulast=Chauhan;type=0 |
| Summary: | Background: Health problems of the old people are a very important component of any healthcare delivery system. Age related changes in immune system and degenerative phenomenon render people susceptible to a variety of infections, neoplasia and other disabilities.
Objectives: To study the morbidity pattern among elderly people of Venkatachalem village, Nellore.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Venkatachalem village. 290 people of age 60 yrs and above were included in the study. Morbidity was assessed by history taking, clinical examination, reviewing past medical records and medicines taken by the study subject.
Result: The average number of morbidity per person was 3.5. The common morbidities were joint complaints (65.9%), anemia (56.6%), cataract (48.3%), and hypertension (34.1%) and generalized pain (13.4%). 9.3% of the elderly were found to be depressed.
Conclusion: We can conclude from the study that there is a growing need for interventions to ensure the health of this vulnerable group and to create a policy to meet the needs of the disabled. Also the common morbidities among the elderly should be considered before planning for any intervention. |
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| ISSN: | 2321-7006 2321-7294 |