Balance Disorders in Young and Middle-Aged Adults: NHANES, 2001-2004 and 2021-2023

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Balance disorders and falls are significant health concerns, particularly in aging populations.
• Understanding the prevalence and risk factors for balance disorders is crucial for preventative strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the prevalence of balance disorders in young and middle-aged adults.
• To examine associations between balance disorders and various risk factors.
• To assess changes in balance disorder prevalence over the past 20 years.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) for 2001-2004 and 2021-2023.
• Employed questionnaires on balance, dizziness, and falls, alongside the modified Romberg test (MRT) for vestibular function assessment.
• Applied logistic regression models to identify risk factors associated with balance disorders.

Main Results:

• In 2021-2023, 36.2% of middle-aged adults reported balance and dizziness problems (BDP), a rise from 21.5% in 2001-2004.
• Failure rates on the modified Romberg test (MRT-4) were 25.9% in 2021-2023, compared to 29.7% in 2001-2004.
• Age, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, hearing issues, and migraines were consistent risk factors; functional disabilities were significantly associated with BDP and MRT performance.

Conclusions:

• Balance disorders are prevalent and associated with other health conditions, increasing fall risk and healthcare utilization.
• The prevalence of balance disorders and falls has increased in young and middle-aged adults.
• An enhanced modified Romberg test (MRT-5) shows promise in identifying individuals at higher risk.