Do Socio-demographic Correlates of Fall-Related Injuries Vary by Body Mass Index?

Background: Socio-demographic correlates of fall-related injuries among aging population are not well understood. Even less is known about the role of obesity in the relationship between socio-demographic factors and fall-related injuries.   

Method: Texas BRFSS (2012) data (N=1688) was examined to identify the socio-demographic determinants of fall-related injuries among obese versus non-obese groups. The dependent variable was fall-related injuries  that limit an individual’s regular activities for at least a day or require them to go see a doctor among our target group of 45 years and older.

Results: In Texas, about two-fifth (39.5%) of falls resulted in injuries. Preliminary analyses indicated that sex, employment status, and income are associated with injuries. Multivariate analyses indicated that among those with BMI > 30, Hispanics and individuals of Other race category were less likely to report injuries compared to Whites [OR.48 (95 % CI=.24 - .94); and .06(.01 - .5)] respectively. Women were more than twice likely to report injuries compared to men (OR=2.01, 95% CI, 1.19 – 3.39), and individuals with income more than $50,000 were less likely to report injuries compared to those with income less than 25k.  Among individuals with BMI < 30, only sex was the significant predictor of injuries where women were more likely to report injuries compared to men.

Conclusion: Socio-demographic correlates of fall-related injuries differ by the BMI status. Interventions aimed at preventing fall-related injuries among obese individuals may consider race / ethnicity, gender and income status, while interventions aimed at non-obese individuals should consider gender differences.