Socioeconomic patterns of underweight and its association with self-rated health, cognition and quality of life among older adults in India

<div><p>Background</p><p>Underweight defined as body mass index (BMI) < 18.5 is associated with negative health and quality of life outcomes including mortality. Yet, little is known about the socioeconomic differentials in underweight and its association with health and well-being among older adults in India. This study examined the socioeconomic differentials in underweight among respondents aged ≥50 in India. Consequently, three outcomes of the association of underweight were studied. These are poor self-rated health, cognition and quality of life.</p><p>Methods</p><p>Cross-sectional data on 6,372 older adults derived from the first wave of the WHO’s Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE), a nationally representative survey conducted in six states of India during 2007–8, were used. Bivariate and multivariate regression analyses were applied to fulfil the objectives.</p><p>Results</p><p>The overall prevalence of underweight was 38 percent in the study population. Further, socioeconomic status showed a significant and negative association with underweight. The association of underweight with poor self-rated health (OR = 1.60; <i>p</i> < .001), cognition (β = –0.95; <i>p</i> < .001) and quality of life (β = –1.90; <i>p</i> < .001) were remained statistically significant after adjusting for age, sex, place of residence, marital status, years of schooling, wealth quintile, sleep problems, chronic diseases, low back pain and state/province.</p><p>Conclusion</p><p>The results indicated significant socioeconomic differentials in underweight and its association with poor self-rated health, cognition and quality of life outcomes. Interventions focussing on underweight older adults are important to enhance the overall wellbeing of the growing older population in India.</p></div

Multivariable regression analysis of the association of underweight with poor self-rated health, cognition and quality of life.

<p>Multivariable regression analysis of the association of underweight with poor self-rated health, cognition and quality of life.</p

Multinomial logistic regression coefficient and confidence interval of BMI by socioeconomic and demographic characteristics.

<p>Multinomial logistic regression coefficient and confidence interval of BMI by socioeconomic and demographic characteristics.</p

Sociodemographic characteristics of the study population by body mass index category (Weighted %).

<p>Sociodemographic characteristics of the study population by body mass index category (Weighted %).</p

Weighted prevalence of poor self-rated health (SRH), mean cognition and quality of life (QoL) scores by body mass index category.

<p>Weighted prevalence of poor self-rated health (SRH), mean cognition and quality of life (QoL) scores by body mass index category.</p