Genetics behind immobility in older women
Locomotor disability, the inability to move or move objects, is on the rise with an associated increase of health care costs and consequent loss of life quality. This type of disability arises due to underlying diseases of the bone, joints, muscles or nerves. The 'Genetic determinants of disability in older women: British women's heart & health study' (GENDIS) project has developed a model to identify women who are at high risk of developing locomotor disability. The project scientists also investigated links with pathways giving rise to inflammatory response. GENDIS researchers developed and validated a risk assessment model. An online calculator will be freely available for the older public and doctors. Data from a large group of women in the United Kingdom suggested that inflammatory diseases and blood coagulation are linked to disability. Interestingly, incidence appeared to be irrespective of lifestyle factors and underlying age-related chronic diseases. Project work has resulted in a better understanding of prediction and development of locomotor disability. Identification of people with a higher predisposition to immobility will help allocate preventive care programmes to those in need. For the future, research should focus on interventions to reduce inflammatory response.
Keywords
Immobility, older women, locomotor disability, inflammation, coagulation, risk assessment
