Synopsis for November 16, 2006

The MMWR is embargoed until Thursday, 12 PM EST.

1. Fatalities and Injuries from Falls among Older Adults – United States, 1993-2005
2. Self Rated Fair or Poor Health among Adults with Diabetes – United States, 1996-2005
3. Hazardous Materials Release Resulting from Home Production of Biodiesel – Colorato, May 2006

Fatalities and Injuries from Falls among Older Adults – United States, 1993-2005

Deaths and injuries from falls are a growing problem for adults 65 and older, but falls can be prevented.
In 2003, more than 13,700 older adults died from falls making this the leading cause of injury deaths among people 65 and older. From 1993 to 2003, the rate for men increased from 32 percent to 46 percent, while the rate for women increased from 20 percent to 31 percent. The report also indicates that in 2003, almost 1.8 million seniors were treated in emergency departments for nonfatal injuries from falls and more than 460,000 of these patients were hospitalized. In 2000, the direct medical costs for falls among older adults was approximately $19 billion. Along with the release of these new data, CDC is promoting brochures and posters to educate older adults—and those who care for them—about falls and fall prevention.

Self Rated Fair or Poor Health among Adults with Diabetes – United States, 1996-2005.

Health risk factors such as smoking and obesity are associated with self-rated fair or poor health. Persons with diabetes should quit smoking through smoking cessation programs and control their weight through exercise and a healthy diet. Self-rated health is an important measurement of health-related quality of life. During 2005, almost half (49.3 percent) of adults 18 years and older with diabetes reported having fair or poor health. Self-rated fair or poor health among adults aged 18–44 years with diabetes rose between 1996 and 2005 — increasing from 35.6 percent to 43.4 percent. Health risk factors (e.g., smoking, obesity), illness severity, and poor access to health care services are related to self-rated fair or poor health. Targeted interventions, such as promoting healthy behaviors, preventing diabetes and its complications, and increasing access to quality health care services are important for improving the health status and quality of life of persons with diabetes.

Hazardous Materials Release Resulting from Home Production of Biodiesel – Colorado, May 2006

No Summary Available

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