Trends and Disparities in Non-Communicable Diseases among Thai Older Adults: Analysis of National Health Examination Surveys, 2008-2020
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Abstract
One of the leading health concerns among Thai older adults is non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Understanding their long-term trends and disparities is crucial for guiding public health policy in the aging Thai society. This study was aimed to investigate the prevalence and trends of NCDs, including their associated sociodemographic, socioeconomic, behavioral risk factors, and caregiver needs among Thai individuals aged 60 and over from 2008 to 2020. In this study, public secondary data from three National Health Examination Surveys (NHES); NHES 4 (2008–2009), NHES 5 (2014), and NHES 6 (2019–2020) were used to determine the prevalence and trends of NCDs, including sociodemographic, socioeconomic, behavioral risk factors, and caregiver needs. Using secondary data limits the study to descriptive statistics, precluding inferential tests and the determination of causal relationships. The findings showed that the prevalence and trends of obesity, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension increased in all age groups between 2008 and 2020, while those of hypercholesterolemia decreased. Health-related behaviors showed reductions in smoking and physical activity in the overall population of all groups, but increases in heavy alcohol consumption and adequate intake of fruits and vegetables. Moreover, the need for caregiver assistance among the older population increased, suggesting a growing demand for long-term care services. The rising prevalence of NCDs and growing dependence on caregiver assistance among Thai older adults highlight an urgent public health challenge. A comprehensive national policy needs to prioritize NCD prevention, healthy aging promotion, and sustainable long-term care systems for both older adults and their caregivers.
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