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Title: GYNECOLOGICAL AILMENTS IN ELDERLY WOMEN -NECESSITY FOR A DEDICATED GERIATRIC FACILITY
e-poster Number: EP 449
Category: Miscellaneous
Author Name: Dr. Rajesh Kumari
Institute: All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi
Co-Author Name:
Abstract :
Introduction
The elderly demographic worldwide is expanding by 2.4% annually. Consequently, the aging population is grappling with health issues, emotional challenges, and isolation, necessitating specialized care and support. The standard outpatient departments often result in physical distress, prompting the establishment of a dedicated facility by AIIMS known as the National Centre of Ageing, inaugurated in April 2024.Within this center, a specialized gynaecology clinic operates once a week, currently offering solely outpatient services
Aim
This study was conducted to evaluate gynecological disorders in elderly women seeking care at our facility and to assess the effectiveness of our services.
Methodology:
A prospective observational study was conducted over a period of one year, spanning from April 2023 to March 2024. The study focused on documenting and analyzing the spectrum of gynecological disorders, comorbidities, diagnoses, and treatment modalities.
Results:
A total of 212 patients aged over 65 years availed gynecological services at the NCA. The most prevalent complaint was urogynecological issues, accounting for 45% of cases. Malignancies constituted the next most common presentation at 22%. Menopausal symptoms ranked third at 15%, with the majority of patients reporting hot flashes, vaginal dryness, dysuria, and urinary tract infections. Emotional disturbances, including depression, insomnia, and feelings of neglect were reported by around 6% of patients. Approximately 12%, presented with nonspecific complaints such as flatulence, back pain, constipation or for routine check-ups. Notably, nearly 95% of patients were not sexually active.
Conclusions: Urogynecological complaints and genital malignancies are the predominant reasons for hospital visits among patients aged 65 and above. Menopausal symptoms and emotional distress being also common must be addressed with utmost care and attention and establishment of counseling services and support groups is imperative to effectively manage these concerns.
