Epidemiology of osteoarthritis

Objective: To summarize the current state of the evidence regarding osteoarthritis (OA) prevalence, incidence and risk factors at the person-level and joint-level. Design: This was a narrative review that took a comprehensive approach regarding inclusion of potential risk factors. The review complements prior reviews of OA epidemiology, with a focus on new research and emerging topics since 2017, as well as seminal studies. Results: Studies continue to illustrate the high prevalence of OA worldwide, with a greater burden among older individuals, women, some racial and ethnic groups, and individuals with lower socioeconomic status. Modifiable risk factors for OA with the strongest evidence are obesity and joint injury. Topics of high interest or emerging evidence for a potential association with OA risk or progression include specific vitamins and diets, high blood pressure, genetic factors, metformin use, bone mineral density, abnormal joint shape and malalignment, and lower muscle strength/quality. Studies also continue to highlight the heterogenous nature of OA, with strong interest in understanding and defining OA phenotypes. Conclusions: OA is an increasingly prevalent condition with worldwide impacts on many health outcomes. The strong evidence for obesity and joint injury as OA risk factors calls for heightened efforts to mitigate these risks at clinical and public health levels. There is also a need for continued research regarding how potential person- and joint-level risk factors may interact to influence the development and progression of OA. Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of Osteoarthritis Research Society International.

Automated summary

This narrative review summarizes the current evidence on the prevalence, incidence, and risk factors of osteoarthritis (OA) at the person-level and joint-level. The review highlights the high prevalence of OA worldwide, with older individuals, women, certain racial and ethnic groups, and individuals with lower socioeconomic status being more affected. Obesity and joint injury are identified as modifiable risk factors with the strongest evidence. Other emerging topics with potential associations with OA risk or progression include specific vitamins and diets, high blood pressure, genetic factors, metformin use, bone mineral density, abnormal joint shape and malalignment, and lower muscle strength/quality. The review also emphasizes the heterogeneity of OA and the importance of understanding and defining OA phenotypes. Overall, OA is a prevalent condition with significant global impacts on health outcomes, necessitating efforts to mitigate obesity and joint injury risks.