5159.0: Wednesday, October 24, 2001 - 2:45 PM

Abstract #29691

A longitudinal analysis of secondary conditions among people with major disabilities in Massachusetts

Monika Mitra, PhD1, Nancy Wilber, EdD1, Deborah Klein Walker, EdD2, and Deborah Allen, ScD3. (1) Bureau of Family and Community Health, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 250 Washington St, 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02108, 617-624-5557, monika.mitra@state.ma.us, (2) Associate Commissioner, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 250 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02108, (3) Division of Special Healthcare Needs, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 4th fl, 250 Washington St, Boston, MA 02108

The Massachusetts Survey of Secondary Conditions (MSSC) was a three phase longitudinal survey of independently living adults with major disabilities. The purpose of the survey was to examine the epidemiology of secondary conditions among people with major disabling conditions in Massachusetts. The 656 respondents in phase 1 reported an average of 5.3 (SD=3.1) secondary conditions compared to 5.5 (SD=3.1) secondary conditions reported by 454 respondents in phase 2. Initial data analysis suggests that the prevalence of secondary conditions, particularly fatigue, depressions, spasms, chronic pain, and fatigue was high. Number for secondary conditions was associated with poor self-reported health status and declining health status over time. Variables related to greater numbers of secondary conditions were: having more than one disabling condition, number of ADL dependencies, IADL difficulties, difficulty with weight and exercise maintenance, tobacco and marijuana use, and having experienced assault. Being male, disabled from birth, and having a primary disabling condition other than spinal cord injury were associated with having fewer secondary conditions. Factor analysis of the secondary conditions produced two subsets of secondary conditions: mental health/chronic pain conditions and paralysis/mobility-related secondary conditions. Correlates for the two subsets of secondary conditions were also identified. These analyses suggest that further research on the epidemiology of secondary conditions is essential.

Learning Objectives: At the end of the presentation, the participant/learner will:

  1. 1. Be informed about the prevalence of secondary conditions among people with major disabilities
  2. 2. Develop an understanding of the connection between disability, secondary conditions, and environmental barriers.
  3. 3. Recognize the importance of incorporating questions regarding secondary conditions and environmental barriers in disability research.

Keywords: Disability, Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA