Morbidity, multimorbidity and comorbidity

"Morbidity" is a term used to indicate how often a certain disease occurs within a population or a group of people. If someone also has milder diseases or conditions alongside the primary one, this is referred to as "comorbidity."

"Multimorbidity" refers to a condition where someone has two or more chronic diseases that both require significant attention. This occurs mainly in older people and can include both physical and psychological conditions.

"Morbidity" is expressed as a percentage or a ratio. For example, the morbidity of diabetes is about 6%. This means that 6 out of 100 people have diabetes.

How do (co- and multi)morbidity influence other physical complaints?

Morbidity, co-morbidity, and multimorbidity have consequences for health. They can increase the likelihood of people developing other diseases or conditions. For example, someone with diabetes is more likely to develop a frozen shoulder.

The presence of other diseases can also complicate the treatment and recovery of complaints. One condition can make the other worse, or treatments for different diseases can counteract each other.

How can you prevent or reduce morbidity and co- and multimorbidity?

Forms of morbidity are not always preventable, but measures can be taken to reduce or control them. For example:

• Follow the advice and treatment of the doctor or other healthcare providers.
• Take medicines as prescribed and watch out for possible side effects.
• Live healthily: eat a varied and balanced diet, exercise regularly, do not smoke, drink no or little alcohol, and avoid excessive stress.
• Seek support from family, friends, or fellow sufferers if needed.
• Be alert to changes in health status and report them in time to a doctor or other healthcare providers.