[Findings from the long-term longitudinal epidemiological study].
The purpose of long-term longitudinal epidemiological studies is to follow a certain cohort longitudinally, and collect detailed data on age-related changes in physical functions and mental activities. Longitudinal epidemiological studies are important not only to clarify the health problems associated with aging and the changes accompanying normal aging, but also to investigate the prevalence, risk factors, prevention, and early diagnosis of geriatric diseases such as dementia and osteoporosis. The National Institute for Longevity Science-Longitudinal Study of Aging (NILS-LSA) started in 1997. The participants in the NILS-LSA of the first wave were 2,267 men and women aged 40 to 79 years, randomly selected from the NILS area. Seven participants were examined every day at the NILS-LSA examination center, and followed up every two years. The aging process is assessed by detailed questionnaires and examinations including clinical evaluation, physiological functions body composition and anthropometry, physical functions, nutritional survey, and psychological assessments. The effects of genotypes, physical and psychological factors, and life-style and environment factors on aging and geriatric diseases were investigated by longitudinal analysis of these detailed and extensive data. In this review, methodologies of longitudinal study on aging and an outline of the system and examinations of the NILS-LSA are shown. The various results from the NILS-LSA research are also presented.
Shimokata
Hiroshi
H
Department of Epidemiology, National Institute for Longevity Sciences, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology.
Ando
Fujiko
F
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology* / Q000523:psychology; D016021:Epidemiologic Studies; D005260:Female; D005853:Geriatrics; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged