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A staggering 22 crore middle-aged individuals in India, accounting for 16.2 percent of the population aged 45-59, are affected by frailty, according to a recent global study published in BMJ Open. Frailty, characterized by weakness in the body making individuals susceptible to diseases, injuries, and falls, is a significant health concern with implications for public health strategies and healthcare systems.
Contrary to common perceptions associating frailty with older age groups, the study highlights its prevalence among middle-aged Indians, shedding light on the urgent need for targeted interventions and support systems. The research, conducted by a team from The George Institute for Global Health (Delhi and Australia) and the UK, underscores the rising incidence of frailty in India.
Key findings from the study reveal that women are twice as likely as men to experience frailty, with factors such as lower education and tobacco use also linked to increased frailty among Indians. Analysis of data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) covering over 65,000 individuals aged 45 and above from 2017 to 2019 revealed significant insights into the prevalence and impact of frailty across the country.
“We think this might be because frail people often have more healthcare expenses, which makes them spend more on daily needs. However, when we looked at their household income instead of spending, we did not see any clear connection,” explained Vivekanand Jha, Executive Director at The George Institute, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of frailty and its socioeconomic implications.
The study also highlights the profound impact of frailty on health outcomes, including increased hospitalizations, falls, and cognitive decline across all adult age groups, with women disproportionately affected. Dr. Jha emphasized the importance of addressing frailty in the context of India’s large ageing population and the need for targeted healthcare interventions tailored to gender-specific and socioeconomic factors.
“India has a large ageing population, and the healthcare system is not yet well-coordinated. Knowing about the prevalence of frailty in the country will help in providing the right care and support for those who need it most,” underscored Dr. Jha, emphasizing the significance of addressing frailty as part of comprehensive healthcare strategies.
Moving forward, the researchers advocate for gender-sensitive approaches to frailty management, alongside efforts to address social inequalities and marginalized communities’ healthcare needs. Early screening for frailty and targeted interventions, particularly within primary care settings, are crucial steps in addressing this pressing public health challenge and ensuring the well-being of individuals across all age groups in India.
