multimorbidity

Multimorbidity is a common condition among elderly subjects, affecting mostly the very old, and
leading to disability, reduced quality of life, and increased health care utilization. Data available on
gender differences in the pattern of co- occurrence of chronic disorders suggest a different distribution
and combination of chronic diseases among men and women, which can affect prognosis and
care needs. Gender differences should thus be considered when investigating risk factors, pathogenetic
mechanisms, and natural history of multimorbidity for better planning of health care models
and care organization.