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Cohort differences in disability and disease presence
S L Reynolds1, E M Crimmins, Y Saito
1Department of Gerontology, University of South Florida, Tampa 33620-8100, USA. sreynold@chuma1.cas.usf.edu
The Gerontologist
|November 6, 1998
Summary
Later-born cohorts show decreasing disability and fewer cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, and emphysema. However, asthma, musculoskeletal disorders, and orthopedic impairments are more prevalent, indicating potential future health challenges.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Understanding long-term health trends across birth cohorts is crucial for public health planning.
- Previous research has not fully detailed how disability and disease prevalence change across successive adult birth cohorts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine cohort patterns in disability and disease presence among US adults.
- To compare health trajectories of adults born between 1915 and 1959.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the National Health Interview Surveys (1982-1993).
- Analyzed disability and disease prevalence for adults aged 30-69 years, focusing on birth cohorts.
Main Results:
- Disability generally decreased for cohorts born until the early 1940s (men) or early 1950s (women), then increased.
- Later-born cohorts exhibit lower prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, and emphysema.
- Increased prevalence of asthma, musculoskeletal disorders, and orthopedic impairments observed in later-born cohorts.
Conclusions:
- Adults born in the late 1940s and 1950s are projected to have better cardiovascular health in old age.
- These later-born cohorts may face a higher burden of musculoskeletal conditions compared to current older populations.