Health status of high-altitude population

Abstract

The health status of high-altitude population in Qinghai (China), Ladakh (India), and Arunachal (India) was investigated using comprehensive geriatric functional assessment in relation to their recent lifestyle change with the socio-economic globalization. People in urban areas had a higher prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases and poorer geriatric functions, and a lower subjective quality of life (QOL) than people in rural areas. The optimal prevention of lifestyle-related diseases and preservation of a high QOL are important for the people living in each of the above-mentioned areas with a high altitude.