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A recent global study has found that cases of osteoarthritis among postmenopausal women have surged by more than 130% over the past three decades. The study, published in BMJ Global Health, analyzed data from 1990 to 2021 and highlighted a significant increase in both the prevalence and disability burden associated with the condition.
Key Findings from the Study
Researchers examined data from 204 countries and territories, drawn from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 study. Their findings indicate that in 2021, there were approximately:
- 14.26 million new cases of osteoarthritis,
- 278.57 million existing cases, and
- 99.45 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) lost due to the disease.
These figures represent increases of 133%, 140%, and 142% respectively since 1990, with the highest rates reported in high-income Asia-Pacific countries and East Asia.
Osteoarthritis and Its Impact
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease marked by cartilage deterioration, joint dysfunction, and chronic pain. The study found that knee osteoarthritis was the most prevalent form and accounted for the highest loss of healthy life years, while hip osteoarthritis was the least common.
The research further established a strong link between postmenopausal osteoarthritis and excess weight, with high body mass index (BMI) contributing to approximately 21% of the total DALYs in 2021. This proportion was significantly higher in high-income regions and East Asia, where lifestyle changes and urbanization have led to increased obesity rates.
Regional and Gender-Based Trends
- High-income Asia-Pacific countries exhibited the highest rates of osteoarthritis.
- Southeast Asia saw the fastest increase in knee osteoarthritis cases.
- Central Asia had the highest burden of hand osteoarthritis, while Oceania had the lowest.
- Women aged 55–59 had nearly twice the DALY rates for hand osteoarthritis compared to men of the same age.
The study also found that osteoarthritis cases increased across all socio-demographic levels, with more developed regions reporting higher incidence rates due to improved diagnostic capabilities and aging populations.
Need for Proactive Measures
Researchers emphasize the need for lifestyle interventions focused on controlling BMI and other modifiable risk factors. They call for urgent policy measures to address socio-demographic disparities in osteoarthritis care and prevention.
“The burden of osteoarthritis among postmenopausal women continues to escalate, highlighting its significant impact on global health,” the study concludes.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on research findings published in BMJ Global Health. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, medical advice should always be sought from healthcare professionals. The study may have limitations, including data variations across regions and exclusions based on age criteria.
