Rising Burden of Cardiometabolic Multimorbidity in India

Strategic Insights -

A new study conducted in India has found a significant increase in the prevalence of cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CMM), a condition where multiple cardiometabolic diseases co-occur, posing a growing health concern among older adults. The research analyzed data from 59,764 participants aged 45 and above from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI), wave 1, conducted between 2017 and 2019. The study identified higher CMM prevalence among females, particularly in the 60-74 age group, and found significant regional and caste disparities.

Key Takeaways:

  • The prevalence of CMM was higher among females (27.3%) compared to males (23.04%) in the 60-74 age group.
  • CMM was more prevalent in urban areas, wealthier socioeconomic groups, and those with higher education.
  • Increased odds of CMM were found among males from the OBC and other castes, while ST males had lower odds.
  • Significant correlates for both genders included not working, urban residence, and higher wealth.
  • Regional CMM rates were highest in the Southern and Western regions, and lowest in the North-East and Central regions of India.
  • The study highlights the need for targeted interventions and effective management of CMM through early screening and comprehensive primary care.

Statistics:

  • 59,764 participants were analyzed in the study from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI), wave 1.
  • 27.3% of females in the 60-74 age group had CMM.
  • 23.04% of males in the 60-74 age group had CMM.
  • The odds of CMM were increased among males from the OBC and other castes (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.27) and statistically significant (p < 0.05).
  • The odds of CMM were decreased among ST males (AOR 0.81) and statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Sources:

  • Cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CMM) among older adults in India. BMC Cardiovascular Disorders, 2025;25(1):750.
  • Bmc, Campus, 4 Crinan St, London N1 9XW, England (BioMed Central - www.biomedcentral.com/; BMC Cardiovascular Disorders - www.biomedcentral.com/bmccardiovascdisord/)
  • Manish Barik, IMPACT Global Consulting, New Delhi, India