From the Guidelines
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) most commonly affects women, with a female:male ratio of 2.2 to 1.5:1, and typically occurs in individuals between the fifth and seventh decades of life 1. The demographic characteristics of BPPV are well-defined, with a notable prevalence among older adults.
- The age of onset is most commonly between the fifth and seventh decades of life 1.
- Women are more frequently affected than men, with the female:male ratio ranging from 2.2 to 1.5:1 1.
- The condition is relatively uncommon in people under 40 unless associated with head trauma 1. The prevalence of BPPV has been reported to range from 10.7 to 140 per 100,000 population, with a lifetime prevalence of 2.4%, a 1-year prevalence of 1.6%, and a 1-year incidence of 0.6% 1. Given the significant health care and societal impacts of BPPV, it is essential to accurately diagnose and manage the condition to minimize morbidity, mortality, and improve quality of life.
- The primary outcome considered in the guideline is the resolution of symptoms associated with BPPV, with secondary outcomes including an increased rate of accurate diagnoses, a more efficient return to regular activities and work, and reduction in recurrence of BPPV 1. Overall, the demographic characteristics of BPPV highlight the importance of considering age and sex when evaluating patients with suspected vestibular disorders.
From the Research
Demographic Typically Affected by BPPV
- The demographic typically affected by Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is adults, with a wide age range of 18 to 90 years old 2.
- The sex ratio of affected individuals is 1:1.5 male to female, indicating a slightly higher prevalence in females 2.
- Older adults are also commonly affected, with one-third of elderly patients with vertigo being diagnosed with BPPV 3.
- BPPV can lead to an increased fall risk in older adults, making it a significant health concern in this population 4.
Age-Related Differences in Treatment Outcomes
- The success rate of a single canalith-repositioning procedure (CRP) is higher in younger adults (72.5%) compared to older adults (67%) 4.
- However, global treatment success does not differ significantly between younger and older adults, with rates of 97.5% and 94.6%, respectively 4.
- Older adults may require more CRPs for complete recovery, with an average of 1.5 procedures needed compared to 1.4 in younger adults 4.
- The recurrence rate of BPPV is higher in older adults (23.2%) compared to younger adults (18.6%) 4.