Inter-regional differences in the rate and structure of the causes of primary disability among the population of rural areas of Azerbaijan

Aim. Evaluation of the differences in the rate of primary disability among the population of rural areas of Azerbaijan in 2014, as well as the structure of its cuses.

Methods. The study was conducted in five administrative regions of republican subordination in Azerbaijan (Absheron, Sheki, Gakh, Ismayilli, Agdash). The choice was based on that by the Ministry of Healthcare of Azerbaijan Republic they were included in the groups of pilot regions for approbation of reforming strategy for rural healthcare system. Statistical processing of data was performed with the use of analysis of qualitative signs, mean error and 95% confidence intervals were determined (t=1.96). Correlation between regional data was evaluated by Pearson and Spearman method. Interregional differences of parameters were assessed by χ2 criteria using Yates's correction.

Results. Primary disability rate was studied (per 10 000 population). Maximal and minimum rates of primary disability among children were found in Ismayilli and Gakh regions, respectively (74.5±6.2 and 28.5±5.1 per 10 000 children below 14 years of age). In comparison with Gakh region, significantly higher rate (р ≤0.05) of primary disability among children younger than 14 years was registered in Sheki, Ismayilli and Agdash regions. Use of correlation analysis by Pearson method allowed determining statistically significant correlation only between the rate of primary disability among adults and physician supply (r=0.96; t=5.9), and also infant mortality rate (r=0.86; t=2.9).

Conclusion. Interregional differences are more pronounced in the rate of primary disability both among children and adult population with similar nosological structure of causes of disability; primary disability rate among adults has a significant correlation with social and economic characteristics of the regions.