UCL
The Information Centre
Key findings from the 2005 survey - Chronic Diseases

iStockphoto.com/
Millanovic 
Arthritis was the most common reported chronic disease among adults aged 65 and over. Rates increased with age and were higher among women.


• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the major cause of death in England, although death rates are falling.

• CVD was the most common chronic disease reported by men aged 65 and over. The rate increased with age and overall was higher among men (37%) than women (31%).

• However, by age 85 and over, rates of CVD in women were similar to those in men.

• Diabetes is a risk factor for CVD and can worsen the effects of other risk factors for CVD, such as raised cholesterol, high blood pressure and obesity.

• 13% of men and 10% of women aged 65 and over had diabetes. Rates were higher among lower income groups.

iStockphoto.com/Wolfgang Amri

• 72% of men and 68% of women aged 65 and over were either overweight or obese.

• Diabetes and arthritis were more common among overweight or obese men and women. Stroke was more common for overweight men and falls were more common for overweight women.
• 62% of men and 64% of women aged 65 and over had highblood pressure. This varied by region for men, with lower levels in the south east of England.
NatCen