Multimorbidity in India: an analysis of prevalence and patterns of chronicity of diseases among older adults using Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE) Wave 2
Ananya Anurakta Pattanaik, Rikat ul ain Hashmi, Rutuparna Sibani Dandsena, Sobhana Sahoo, Priyanka Verma, Shishirendu Ghosal, Sushmita Kerketta, Srikanta Kanungo, Sanghamitra Pati
Abstract
Background: Multimorbidity, the coexistence of two or more chronic non-communicable diseases, poses a significant health challenge in India, particularly among older adults. Factors such as population ageing, lifestyle changes and urbanisation have led to an increasing burden of chronic diseases. Methods: Data from the Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health Wave 2, which surveyed 11 818 individuals in India, were utilised, focusing on those aged 50 and above. The analysis included 7118 participants after excluding those with missing or incorrect data. The prevalence and patterns of multimorbidity were assessed by examining the co-occurrence of eight chronic conditions: arthritis, stroke, angina, diabetes, chronic lung disease, asthma, depression and hypertension. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA software to determine the frequency and chronicity of these conditions. Results: The prevalence of multimorbidity was 45.14%, with hypertension (22%) and arthritis (19%) being the most common conditions. Hypertension also showed the highest chronicity, often being the first diagnosed condition. Significant patterns of dyads and triads were identified, with hypertension frequently co-occurring with other chronic conditions. Discussion: This study provides a comprehensive analysis of multimorbidity among older adults in India, revealing a high prevalence of conditions like hypertension and arthritis. The findings highlight the substantial burden of multimorbidity, with significant implications for healthcare management. The study underscores the need for integrated, patient-centred care models to manage multimorbidity effectively. These insights are crucial for developing targeted interventions and health policies aimed at improving care coordination and outcomes for individuals with multiple chronic conditions in India.