RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH OSTEOARTHRITIS AMONG THE PATIENTS VISITING TERTIARY CARE HOSPITALS OF PESHAWAR, PAKISTAN
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69723/njms.04.03.0617Keywords:
Osteoarthritis, Risk Factors, Tertiary care hospitals, occupation, BMI, TraumaAbstract
BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disorder that significantly impairs daily functioning, in all age groups. Different factors contribute to the development of Osteoarthritis including genetics, age, physical activity, Joint injury and occupation.
OBJECTIVE: The primary objective of this study was to identify and analyze the modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors associated with osteoarthritis (OA). Additionally, the study aimed to examine the strength of association between various risk factors and the development or progression of OA in affected individuals.
METHODOLOGY: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from 1st February to 30th April 2025, involving 358 diagnosed OA patients from Khyber Teaching Hospital (KTH) and Hayatabad Medical Complex (HMC). Non-probability sampling was used, and data was collected via a self-administered questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with results presented in tables and percentages.
RESULTS: This cross-sectional study of 358 OA patients in Peshawar identified significant associations between modifiable (BMI, physical activity, joint injury) and non-modifiable (age, gender,) risk factors. Mean age of the patients was 55.39 years, a higher prevalence of knee OA (71.5%), and a higher BMI was statistically significant (p<0.001). Laborers (15.9%) and agricultural workers (9.8%) who engaged in vigorous activities exhibited significantly higher occupational injury rates (63.2% and 60.0%) as compared to the rest. Hypertension (23.7%, p=0.004) and diabetes (7.5%, p=0.001) showed a significant association with Osteoarthritis, while family history (34.4%, p=0.734) was non-significant.
CONCLUSION: This study showed that osteoarthritis is substantially related to age, gender, elevated body mass index, history of joint injury, occupational exposure, and physical activity. The results underscore the need for targeted interventions, such as weight management programs, occupational health initiatives, and genetic screening to explore familial predispositions.
KEY WORDS: Osteoarthritis, Risk Factors, Tertiary care hospitals, occupation, BMI, Trauma
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