Study of elderly residents in Santa Ines, Bahia: demographic, genetics and social aspects

Abstract

The population ageing is a world trend with important social and public health consequences. Increased representation of elderly population has been accompanied by research on demographic, epidemiologic and genetic factors about ageing. This research aimed to analyze aspects associated with longevity in the city of Santa Ines-Bahia, which has the highest rate of elderly citizens in the State. It was carried out a case/control study with random sample of young, elderly and very old individuals who answered questionnaire on genetic, health and habits of life data. Additionally it was carried out the micronucleus and nuclear abnormalities test, as indicative of occurrence of cell damage on aging. The results indicate demographic trends associated with the decline of younger population in comparison to the elderly, as well as the influence of multifactorial characteristics such as health habits of life, reduced calorie diet and familial history for longevity, favoring a health aging.