Treatment for menopausal symptoms and having health insurance were associated with a lower prevalence of falls among Brazilian women

ObjectivesBrazil has an aging population. This study aims to raise awareness of the prevalence and factors associated with falls among Brazilian women.Study designCross-sectional study with 622 women over 50 years of age was conducted between 05/10/11 and 10/31/11 in the city of Campinas/São Paulo/Brazil in the form of a population survey.Main outcome measuresThe dependent variable was the occurrence of falls in the past 12 months. The independent variables were sociodemographic data, health-related habits and problems, self-perception of health and evaluation of functional capacity. Statistical analysis was carried out by Chi-square test and Poisson regression using the backward selection criteria.ResultsThe mean age of the women was 64.1 years. The prevalence of falls in the past 12 months was 24.6%. Having trouble keeping balance when walking: PR 1.87 (95% CI 1.33–2.63, P < 0.001); alcohol consumption: PR 1.69 (95% CI 1.25–2.28, P < 0.002); having been admitted to a hospital in the last 12 months: PR 1.46 (95% CI 1.09–1.96, P = 0.012); and having cataract: PR 1.40 (95% CI 1.05–1.87, P = 0.021) were associated with a higher prevalence of falls. Having health insurance: PR 0.67 (95% CI 0.50–0.89, P = 0.007) and using some form of medication to treat menopausal symptoms: PR 0.42 (95% CI 0.19–0.92, P = 0.031) were associated with a lower prevalence of falls.ConclusionHaving health insurance and using some form of medication to treat menopausal symptoms were associated with a lower prevalence of falls among Brazilian women.