Osteoarthritis is a prevalent form of arthritis that affects millions of individuals all over the world. This form of arthritis is associated with the aging process and wear-and-tear of the joints.
It is important to note that osteoarthritis is common but not inevitable. Even though the condition affects millions of individuals, it is likely for an individual to live his/her entire life without developing the condition including the elderly. It has been established that almost 70% of individuals over 65 years old have evidence of osteoarthritis in an X-ray result but not all will experience the symptoms.
Aging process
The risk for developing osteoarthritis increases with age, but it is not just a usual part of the aging process. Even though certain cellular processes that take place with aging might cause the condition in some individuals, it has been suggested that there is more than just the aging that is responsible for the arthritic changes to the joints and cartilage.
Risk factors for osteoarthritis
Remember that there are risk factors linked with osteoarthritis. If an individual has more risk factors, he/she is likely to develop the condition. In case an individual has a family history of osteoarthritis, he/she is at risk for developing the disease.
When it comes to joint injuries or the individual is overweight, the risk is higher. Some of the risk factors are considered modifiable while others are not. Even though these factors increase the chances for develop osteoarthritis, one can develop the condition even if he/she has none of the recognized risk factors.
It is important to note that not every individual will develop osteoarthritis. It is not an inevitable condition as well. The potential risk factors heighten the likelihood for the individual to end up with the condition, but some can end up with the condition who have no known risk factors. With further studies being conducted, the possible causes for the condition might be discovered.
A simple treatment or preventive medication might be developed for the condition. There might be a way to eliminate one of the main risk factors such as the high rate of obesity that can lead to a reduction in the frequency of osteoarthritis.