Predictors and persistence of foot problems in women aged 70 years and over: A prospective study

Objective: To examine the prevalence and correlates offoot problems in older women over a 6-year period.

Study design: Women aged 70–75 years who participated inthe Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health completed a postalquestionnaire incorporating questions relating to demographics, major medicalconditions and health status in 1999 (n = 8059) and 2005 (n = 4745).

Main outcome measures: Self-reported foot problems at baseline andat 6 years follow-up, major medical conditions, body mass index (BMI).

Results: At baseline, 26% of the sample reported footproblems. At follow-up, 37% remained free of foot problems, 36% had developed anew foot problem, 13% experienced resolution of their foot problems and 14%experienced persistent foot problems. Increase in BMI was significantlyassociated with the development of new foot problems and the persistence ofexisting foot problems.

Conclusions: Foot problems are common in older women andare associated with increased BMI. Maintaining a healthy bodyweight maytherefore play a role in the prevention of foot disorders in older women.