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 other diseases or conditions alongside the primary one, this is referred to as "comorbidity."

With multimorbidity, someone has 2 or more chronic diseases that all require significant attention. This occurs mainly in older adults. These can be both physical and psychological conditions.

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

How do (co- and multi)morbidity affect other physical problems?

Morbidity and co- 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 symptoms. One condition can worsen the other, 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 for possible side effects.
• Live healthily: eat a varied and sufficient diet, exercise regularly, do not smoke, drink no or little alcohol and avoid stress.
• Seek support from family, friends or peers if needed.
• Be alert to changes in health status and report them in time to a doctor or other healthcare providers.