Abstract
Peripheral edema (i.e., lower limb swelling) can cause pain, weakness, and limited range of motion. However, few studies have examined its prevalence in the U.S. or its association with demographics, comorbidities, activity, or mobility. This study used data from the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative longitudinal survey of U.S. adults (age 51+/ N = 19,988 for 2016), to evaluate time trends and correlates of peripheral edema using weighted descriptive statistics and logistic regressions, respectively. Peripheral edema was assessed with the question “Have you had… // Persistent swelling in your feet or ankles?” The weighted prevalence of edema among older U.S. adults was 19% to 20% between 2000 and 2016. Peripheral edema was associated with older age, female sex, non-white race, low wealth, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, pain, low activity levels, and mobility limitations (odds ratios ranging from 1.2–5.6; p-values ≤0.001). This study provides the first estimates of national prevalence and correlates of peripheral edema among older Americans. Peripheral edema is common and strongly associated with comorbidities, pain, low activity levels, and mobility limitations, and disproportionately affects poorer and minority groups. Peripheral edema should be a focus of future research in order to develop novel and cost-effective interventions.
Highlights
Chronic edema of the lower limbs can cause pain, heaviness, weakness, discomfort, and negative body image, and limitations in mobility and flexibility [1]
Edema was associated with older age, female sex, minority race, low wealth, overweight/obese status, diabetes, hypertension, pain, low activity, and mobility limitations (Table 1 and S1 Table)
Our findings indicate that social disparities in lower limb edema are significant, with Blacks/African Americans and other racial minorities, women, and less wealthy individuals reporting the highest rates of peripheral edema
Summary
Chronic edema of the lower limbs (i.e., chronic peripheral edema) can cause pain, heaviness, weakness, discomfort, and negative body image, and limitations in mobility and flexibility [1]. Multiple causes of peripheral edema exist, including deficiencies in the venous or lymphatic systems [2], heart failure [3], and certain medications [4]. When peripheral edema is untreated, it can increase the risk of infection and ulcers [5]. Research performed in clinicbased samples or in countries outside the U.S suggests that edema affects many individuals, including those with obesity, older age, sedentary lifestyles, history of deep venous thrombosis, and occupations that require long hours of standing [6, 7].
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