Prospective ECUAging Observational study: cohort design and preliminary results

Abstract

Background: The global phenomenon of increasing older adult populations is evident across diverse societies, including historically youthful middle- and low-income countries. Conducting population-specific research in low- and middle-income countries becomes imperative to gather pertinent evidence for crafting interventions tailored to the unique needs of each group. In this context, the present study centers on aging and frailty within rural communities situated in the Province of Loja, Ecuador, with the primary objective to analyze the aging process and assess the level of frailty, contributing valuable insights to scientific knowledge in this domain and establishing a robust foundation for future targeted health interventions. Methods: The study, conducted in rural communities of Calvas and Gonzanamá counties in the Province of Loja, Ecuador, in individuals aged 55 and older, utilized mobile stations set up for health evaluations over a two-week period in June-July 2023. A total of 269 participants underwent extensive measurements, including anthropometrics, blood samples, and assessments of physical and cognitive function. The study covered sociodemographic, lifestyle, and health-related measures, along with mental health evaluations, quality of life, functional status, and global cognition, utilizing validated scales. Results: A total of 269 individuals, mostly women (56.1%), aged 70.1 on average, participated in the study. Predominantly mestizo (93.7%), participants maintained healthy lifestyles, with minimal smoking (4.1%) and alcohol consumption (7.4%). While physical performance results indicated overall well-being, anxiety and depression levels were concerning, affecting approximately 75% of participants. No significant gender differences were observed in physical performance, independence, cognition, anxiety, depression, or well-being. Conclusion: The ECUAging study will provide detailed clinical data and will substantially contribute to new information on the predictors of aging, senescence, and senility, particularly in frail and pre-frail outpatients from rural areas of Ecuador.