SELF-REPORTED PREVALENCE OF NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES AMONG ELDERS IN THANLYIN TOWNSHIP, YANGON REGION, MYANMAR: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Kay Thi Lwin and Win Myint Oo*
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are also known as chronic diseases of long duration. Globally, 40 million deaths are caused by NCDs in each year, representing 70% of all annual deaths. Besides, the socio-economic impact of NCDs are also significant. Therefore, the present study was done to determine the prevalence and risk factors of NCDs among elders in Yangon, Myanmar. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Thanlyin township, Yangon city during 2016. A total of 411 elder persons were recruited into the study using systematic random sampling. Informed consent was taken from every respondent and interview method was utilized in data collection. The presence of any NCDs has been confirmed by observing medical records and reports. Results: The overall self-reported prevalence of NCDs was 24.8% (95% CI: 20.7%, 29.3%). The prevalence was higher among females, those with low education status and respondents whose age was equal or more than 70 years. Based on multiple logistic regression analysis, having regular exercise was identified as a significant protective factor for the development of NCDs (p < 0.001). Diabetes mellitus (15.6%) was the commonest type of NCDs among elders followed by hypertension (8.5%) and heart disease (4.9%). Conclusion: The prevalence of NCDs among elder population is high. Prevention and control activities of NCDs as well as elderly health care program should be intensified. Practicing regular exercise should be promoted and strengthened.
Keywords: Elders; exercise; Myanmar, NCDs, Yangon.
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