Peripheral edema: A common and persistent health problem for older Americans

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Peripheral edema (lower limb swelling) causes pain and limits mobility.
• Its prevalence and associations in the U.S. older adult population are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of peripheral edema in U.S. older adults.
• To identify demographic, comorbidity, activity, and mobility correlates of peripheral edema.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the Health and Retirement Study (N=19,988, age 51+).
• Employed weighted descriptive statistics and logistic regressions to analyze prevalence and correlates.
• Assessed peripheral edema via self-reported persistent swelling in feet or ankles.

Main Results:

• Weighted prevalence of peripheral edema was 19%-20% from 2000-2016.
• Associated factors included older age, female sex, non-white race, low wealth, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, pain, low activity, and mobility limitations (ORs 1.2-5.6).

Conclusions:

• Peripheral edema is common in older Americans.
• It is strongly associated with comorbidities, pain, low activity, and mobility limitations.
• Poorer and minority groups are disproportionately affected, highlighting a need for targeted interventions.