Helena
08-01-2004, 14:35
Disability rates have risen sharply in the past two decades among those under 60, and obesity appears to be the main reason, a study released Thursday said.
For those 30- to 39-years-old, the number reporting disabilities increased from 118 per 10,000 people to 182 per 10,000 people from 1984 to 1996. Among those 40- to 49-years-old, the number rose from 212 per 10,000 to 278 per 10,000 in the same period.
However, disability declined by more than 10 per cent for those 60 to 69, the study said.
The leading causes of disability are mental illness and musculoskeletal problems — such as chronic back pain — which are linked to obesity.
“People today find it's very cheap to eat and expensive to exercise,” Mr. Lakdawalla said.
Researchers warned that the increase in the disability rate could mean higher health care costs in the future.
For those 30- to 39-years-old, the number reporting disabilities increased from 118 per 10,000 people to 182 per 10,000 people from 1984 to 1996. Among those 40- to 49-years-old, the number rose from 212 per 10,000 to 278 per 10,000 in the same period.
However, disability declined by more than 10 per cent for those 60 to 69, the study said.
The leading causes of disability are mental illness and musculoskeletal problems — such as chronic back pain — which are linked to obesity.
“People today find it's very cheap to eat and expensive to exercise,” Mr. Lakdawalla said.
Researchers warned that the increase in the disability rate could mean higher health care costs in the future.