Temporal dynamics, patterns and correlates of single and multimorbidity in India, 1994-2018

As a consequence of the epidemiological transition, multimorbidity has been identified as a critical public health challenge in India. The majority of the studies in the domain are grounded on hospital-based data or are based on small sample size, findings from which can only be generalized to a specific sub-group. These studies recommend exploring multimorbidity holistically at a national level to ensure adequate healthcare management in the country. Therefore, the present study examines the pattern and correlates of single and multimorbidity over the past two decades in India.

The study utilized data on 397901, 257519, and 399705 individuals from 52nd (1994-1995), 60th (2004-2005), and 75th (2018) rounds of cross-sectional data from the National Sample Survey (NSS). Univariate, bivariate, and multivariable statistical methods were applied to draw inferences from the data. The findings depict an increase in single and multimorbidity burden over individuals' age and NSS rounds.

Hypertension and diabetes were the fastest-growing morbidities over time. Higher education, urban residence, and belonging to an affluent class were significantly associated with both single and multimorbidity occurrence over time.

The burden of single and multimorbidity increases over time among India's older adults. Therefore, there is an urgent need to recuperate chronic disease management strategies for older adults in the Indian healthcare infrastructure.