During 2017–2021, around 2.2 lakh young people, below 18, in the United States have been diagnosed with arthritis, according to a report published by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It was found that the likelihood of the joint condition among children and adolescents increased with age and peaked between the age groups 12–17 years. The data clearly implies that arthritis is no longer an old person's disease and can occur in anyone who has certain risk factors.
The CDC report suggested that the prevalence of arthritis was higher among non-Hispanic Black or African American (Black) children and adolescents, those diagnosed with depression, a heart condition, anxiety, or obesity.
To understand further and to find out why there has been an increase in arthritis cases among young people, we spoke to Dr (Prof) Anil Arora, Vice Chairman and Head of Department-Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement Surgery, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj, who also discusses certain preventive strategies.
Also Read: Arthritis Isn't Just An Old People's Condition: Other Risk Factors To Note
Who Is Commonly At Risk For Arthritis?
Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints leading to pain and restricted movement. Many factors can influence your risk of joint inflammation ranging from age related changes, infection to injury, says Dr Arora. Let’s take a look at them in detail.
Obesity
People who are overweight or obese are more likely to have arthritis as compared to people who are in the normal weight category. For those with knee osteoarthritis, extra weight can make the symptoms worse. In addition, it can also put more stress on the weight bearing joints like the knee and hip joint.
Infection
Any bacterial or viral infection involving the joint can also lead to arthritis, says Dr Arora. Most cases of infectious arthritis are caused by a bacteria, the most common one being the Staphylococcus aureus (staph), a bacterium that lives on healthy skin. However, viruses and fungi can also lead to the condition.
Injury
Any injury or repetitive stress can damage a joint and can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis in that joint. Osteoarthritis is a joint disease, wherein the tissues in the joint break down over time. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the knee is the most frequently affected joint followed by the hip and hand, with a prevalence of 36.5 crore cases.
Age and gender
Age related wear and tear can also lead to arthritis. Additionally, gender can also influence a person’s risk of the condition. While some types of arthritis like osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) are common in women, gout is more prevalent among men.
Why Are Young People Becoming More Prone
According to Dr Arora, arthritis is not only an age-related disease. Nowadays, a lot of the younger people are presenting with early onset arthritis or joint pain.
As per a 2014 study published in the Sage Journal, obesity and joint injury are some of the common factors that increase the risk of arthritis in young people. Joint damage and injury, as we all know, occurs due to repetitive stress on the joints, usually when we engage in sporty activities. Hence, athletes are more likely to have joint injuries than others, the study suggests.
Another study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research (IJMR) points out that obesity is the greatest modifiable risk factor for osteoarthritis. It mentions that people with a BMI>30 kg/m2 were 6.8 times more likely to develop knee osteoarthritis than those with a normal weight.
In addition, lifestyle factors also play a major role. According to Dr Arora, smoking, unhealthy diet, and physical inactivity, all contribute to an increased risk of arthritis in young people.
Also Read: Rheumatoid Arthritis Affects More Than Just Your Joints: Note The Unusual Symptoms Of The Condition
Arthritis Prevention In The Younger Population
To prevent and reduce the risk of arthritis, it is important to maintain a healthy body weight, optimum exercise and a balanced diet rich in protein and calcium, says Dr Arora, adding that adequate sun exposure is also crucial so that the body receives sufficient amounts of vitamin D3.
Additionally, diet and exercise play a very important role in preventing arthritis as it helps in maintaining a healthy body weight, thus reducing the risk of developing arthritis, the doctor adds.
