Body Composition and Urbanization in Older Adults in China
Author Information
Author(s): Spangler Hillary, Michelson Lisa, Howard Annie Green, Tien Hsaio, Lynch David, Du Shufa, Gordon-Larsen Penny, Batsis John
Primary Institution: University of North Carolina School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Less urbanized areas in China are associated with higher risk of developing frailty.
Conclusion
Older adults with body composition consistent with frailty had a lower level of urbanization.
Supporting Evidence
- Three of the five best fitting classes aligned with robust, pre-frail, and frail statuses.
- The frail class had the lowest urbanization index of 65.1.
- The robust class was associated with a higher urbanization index of 71.6.
Takeaway
Older people living in less urban areas in China tend to be frailer and have different body compositions compared to those in more urban areas.
Methodology
The study used data from the China Health and Nutrition Survey and included community-dwelling adults aged 60 and older, assessing body composition through bioelectrical impedance.
Participant Demographics
55% female, mean age 72.0±5.9 years.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website