Increased Risk of Arthritis in Younger Age Groups
Health experts, in advance of World Arthritis Day, highlighted that arthritis, typically linked with older individuals, is progressively impacting not only older adults but also young adults and teenagers.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), worldwide approximately 9.6 percent of men and 18 percent of women aged over 60 suffer from osteoarthritis () -- typically caused by wear and tear, injury, infection, age, and genetics.
‘Osteoarthritis is the second most prevalent rheumatologic issue in India, with prevalence rates ranging from 22 percent to 39 percent. #arthritis #bonehealth #worldarthritisday’
Common symptoms include joint pain, restricted movement, swelling, and a painful grating sensation."In recent years, an alarming and consistent rise in arthritis cases among young adults is being seen. Out of total orthopedic patients, 15-20 percent are 35 years old or younger," Vivek Mahajan, Senior Consultant, Orthopedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon, Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, New Delhi, told IANS.
"Young adults, particularly those between 25 and 45, are more susceptible to early-onset arthritis. Regular physical activity to maintain joint flexibility, weight management, and a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can reduce the risk," added Hemant Bansal, Consultant - Orthopedics, Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, Gurugram.The orthopaedic experts noted that until a decade back, most arthritis patients were above the age of 45.
Now, a patient can even be even 16 years old. In addition, a lot of working professionals around the age of 30 are also presenting with pain and stiffness in their joints."Inactive routines and a growing obesity epidemic are significant contributors. A lethargic and laid-back approach and excess body weight place undue stress on joints, accelerating wear and tear," Bansal told IANS. Rheumatoid arthritis -- an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks the joint lining, leading to cartilage and bone damage -- is also more common in younger individuals, and poses a greater threat.
Arthritis is rapidly becoming the fourth most common cause of disability in India, the doctors said. The doctors called for regular physical activity to maintain joint flexibility, weight management, and a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods to reduce the risk of arthritis. Early detection through regular check-ups is crucial.
Diagnosis involves tests like ESR and CRP for rheumatoid arthritis and imaging techniques for osteoarthritis. Timely intervention can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life, they said, while also noting promising medical advancements in arthritis treatment.
"Medicines, exercise, and physiotherapy are always the first lines of treatment for arthritis management. But in cases where osteoarthritis becomes extremely advanced, joint replacement offers a very safe and viable solution to improve the quality of life of the patient," Surya Udai Singh, Senior Consultant, Orthopedic and Robotic Knee Replacement, NH-RN Tagore Hospital, Kolkata, told IANS. Dr. Singh emphasized on the effectiveness of robotic technology, which minimizes the possibility of human error and inconsistency while ensuring unparalleled accuracy.
Reference:
- Osteoarthritis - (https:www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/osteoarthritis)