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Disease pattern in the elderly
I O Olubuyide1, P D Hart, A Alli-Gombe
1Department of Medicine, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria.
The Central African Journal of Medicine
|August 1, 1991
Summary
This study analyzed elderly patient diseases in Nigeria from 1980-1986. Cardiac, neoplastic, and infectious diseases were most common, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and preventive care in aging populations.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Internal Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- The disease patterns in elderly populations are crucial for public health planning.
- Understanding common morbidities in older adults informs healthcare resource allocation.
- Geriatric medicine requires specific approaches to diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the prevalent diseases affecting elderly patients admitted to medical wards.
- To identify the most common causes of morbidity and mortality in this demographic.
- To provide recommendations for improving health outcomes in the elderly.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of patient records.
- Data collected over a seven-year period (1980-1986).
- Involved a sample size of 2,676 elderly patients.
Main Results:
- Cardiac diseases were a leading cause of illness.
- Neoplastic (cancerous) diseases represented a significant burden.
- Infective diseases were also frequently observed among elderly patients.
- The study reviewed 2,676 patients over seven years.
Conclusions:
- Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are vital for managing elderly patient diseases.
- Enhancing preventive medicine strategies can promote healthy aging.
- Reducing morbidity and mortality in the elderly requires a multi-faceted approach.