Predictors and persistence of foot problems in older women: a six year prospective study
2011

Foot Problems in Older Women Over Six Years

Sample size: 8059 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Hylton B Menz, Elizabeth LM Barr, Wendy J Brown

Primary Institution: La Trobe University

Hypothesis

What factors predict the persistence of foot problems in older women?

Conclusion

Foot problems are common in older women and are linked to increased BMI, with many developing new issues over six years.

Supporting Evidence

  • 26% of the sample reported foot problems at baseline.
  • 37% remained free of foot problems at follow-up.
  • 36% developed a new foot problem over six years.
  • 13% experienced resolution of their foot problems.
  • 14% experienced persistent foot problems.
  • Increase in BMI was significantly associated with new and persistent foot problems.

Takeaway

Older women often have foot problems, and if they don't have any, there's a good chance they might get one in six years. Keeping a healthy weight can help prevent these problems.

Methodology

Women aged 70 to 75 completed questionnaires about their health and foot problems in 1999 and 2005.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to self-reporting of foot problems and health status.

Limitations

The study only included women aged 70 to 75 and relied on self-reported data.

Participant Demographics

Women aged 70 to 75 years.

Statistical Information

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1757-1146-4-S1-O30

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