Epidemiology of Osteoarthritis and Associated Comorbidities

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common cause of walking-related disability among older adults in the United States, and the prevalence and incidence of OA are increasing rapidly. Systemic and local risk factors for knee OA have been identified, and obesity and joint injury appear to be the strongest risk factors that are both modifiable and have the potential for substantial impact on a population level. The risk factors for functional decline and disability in persons with symptomatic OA have been examined in relatively few studies. The course of functional decline in persons with symptomatic OA on a population level is generally one of stable to slowly deteriorating function, but on an individual level, many patients maintain function or improve during the first 3 years of follow-up. Obesity stands out as one of few modifiable risk factors of OA that also is a potentially modifiable predictor of functional decline. Physical activity also appears to have a substantial protective impact on future OA-related disability. Further epidemiologic studies and randomized controlled trials are needed to prioritize prevention through targeting these modifiable risk factors for OA and related disability.

Epidemiology of Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis

“…Although a number of reviews on the epidemiology of OA are available, [4][5][6] we aim to detail the prevalence and risk factors associated with PTOA, particularly of the knee and ankle joints.…”

Effects of single or combined administration of salmon calcitonin and omega-3 fatty acids vs. diclofenac sodium in sodium monoiodoacetate-induced knee osteoarthritis in male Wistar rats

“…More than 10% of the world population is affected by this disease [2]. Although OA affects the hand, spine, hip, wrist, and ankle [3], knee OA represents the most widespread form of this disease [4].…”

Alendronate Sodium in Osteoarthritis: Effects on Lipid Profile, Circulating Leptin and the Clinical Activity

“…OA is a degenerative joint abnormality (Blagojevic et al, 2010) which may associated with inflammatory events (Berenbaum, 2013). Pathophysiological changes in the synovial fluid may also occur, as well as subchondral bone and other joint structures (Suri et al, 2012). Recently OA associated with increased activity of different cytokines in the joints (Loeseret al, 2012) which lead to production of enzymes that mediate destruction of cartilage (Goldring and Goldring, 2007).…”