Diabetes-Free Life Expectancy (DFLE) by Gender and Locality Among Aging Adults in India: Evidence From a Large-Scale National Survey

Abdul Fathah, University of Pune, Pune & International Instutute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, India

Background: As a consequence of the combined demographic and epidemiologic transition, healthy ageing in developing countries is a major public health concern. The present study aimed to estimate the diabetic-free life expectancy (DFLE) among middle-aged and older adults by gender and locality in the Indian context. Methods: Life Expectancy (LE) and Diabetic Free Life Expectancy (DFLE) in India were estimated among males and females and rural and urban populations. Sullivan method was applied to estimate the LE and DFLE. Mortality data from the abridged life tables published by the Government of India and the diabetes prevalence data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI - wave 1 conducted in 2017-18) were utilised. Results: The results evidenced a higher prevalence of diabetes among males and individuals living in urban areas compared to their counterparts. In addition, females have higher LE and DFLE compared to males. Regarding locality, LE is higher among urban adults with lower DFLE. However, the rural adults were estimated to have lower LE and higher DFLE. Conclusion: Understanding the gender and locality differences is crucial for developing tailored diabetes programs. Healthcare providers and policymakers should account for these factors when addressing ageing adults.

Keywords: Population Ageing, Health and Morbidity

See paper.