Patterns of Chronic Conditions and Their Associations With Behaviors and Quality of Life, 2010

Co-occurring chronic health conditions elevate the risk of poor health outcomes such as death and disability, are associated with poor quality of life, and magnify the complexities of self-management, care coordination, and treatment planning. This study assessed patterns of both singular and multiple chronic conditions, behavioral risk factors, and quality of life in a population-based sample.

In a national survey, adults (n = 4,184) answered questions about the presence of 27 chronic conditions. We used latent class analysis to identify patterns of chronic conditions and to explore associations of latent class membership with sociodemographic characteristics, behavioral risk factors, and health.

Latent class analyses indicated 4 morbidity profiles: a healthy class (class 1), a class with predominantly physical health conditions (class 2), a class with predominantly mental health conditions (class 3), and a class with both physical and mental health conditions (class 4). Class 4 respondents reported significantly worse physical health and well-being and more days of activity limitation than those in the other latent classes. Class 4 respondents were also more likely to be obese and sedentary, and those with predominantly mental health conditions were most likely to be current smokers.

Subgroups with distinct patterns of chronic conditions can provide direction for screening and surveillance, guideline development, and the delivery of complex care services.