Facts about Arthritis Everyone Should Know!

Hello everyone!

Arthritis is often misunderstood as just 'aches and pains' associated with aging, but it’s far more complex and widespread than most people realize. Affecting millions worldwide, arthritis doesn’t discriminate by age, gender, or lifestyle. With over 100 different types of arthritis, this condition not only limits mobility but can also severely impact the quality of life.

In this article, we’ll uncover some key facts about arthritis—what it is, who it affects, and why understanding it is crucial for better management and prevention.

1.  Arthritis is alarmingly widespread

Over 180 million people in India are estimated to be affected by arthritis, making it one of the most common health issues in the country.

2. Osteoarthritis

is the most prevalent type, affecting around 22.5% of the Indian population, which is about one in five adults, especially in those over 60 years of age.

3. Women are more likely to get arthritis than men

In India, severe vitamin D deficiency, obesity and poor nutrition make women more susceptible to arthritis. As a result of this, the average age for the onset of knee problems is 50 years among Indian women while it is 60 years for men.

4. It’s not just an “old person’s” disease

Arthritis can affects people of all age group including children. While arthritis is generally associated with older adults, many cases, particularly rheumatoid arthritis, begin in individuals aged 20-40 and Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis affects children between the ages of 1 and 3 or 8 and 12 years.

5. Sedentary lifestyles and lack of physical activity

Leading a sedentary lifestyle can significantly worsen arthritis symptoms. Lack of physical activity weakens the muscles that support joints, increases stiffness, and can lead to greater joint pain and reduced mobility. In fact, prolonged inactivity can accelerate joint degeneration, making arthritis more severe over time.

6. It’s a leading cause of disability

Untreated arthritis can lead to severe disability, preventing individuals from performing simple daily tasks like walking, holding objects, or even standing for extended periods.

 

7. Obesity worsens arthritis

Obesity is a growing concern in India, especially in urban areas, significantly contributing to the increase in arthritis cases, particularly knee osteoarthritis.

8. If you have arthritis,

There are higher chances of developing obesity, blood pressure and heart diseases.

• Obesity: People with arthritis may have sore joints that make it difficult to exercise, which can le ad to weight gain. Being overweight can also increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis and make it worse if you already have it.
• High blood pressure: People with arthritis are more likely to have high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for heart disease. Some medications used to treat arthritis, like NSAIDs and steroids, can also increase blood pressure.
• Heart disease: People with arthritis have an increased risk of developing heart disease due to shared risk factors like high blood pressure, obesity, and smoking.
  

9. Other Health complications are also responsible for Arthritis

Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes) has been linked to an increased risk of developing various types of arthritis, especially osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. High blood glucose levels can cause the body to produce inflammatory molecules known as cytokines, which can damage joint tissues and lead to arthritis.

Thyroid conditions, hypothyroidism (under-active thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), can also contribute to joint problems and arthritis. 

Hypothyroidism can lead to joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, particularly in the hands, knees, and ankles. Low thyroid hormone levels slow down metabolism, which can lead to fluid retention in the joints, causing swelling and discomfort. 

Hyperthyroidism, or overproduction of thyroid hormone, can cause joint pain and muscle weakness.

10. Certain professions can increase the risk of developing arthritis 

Due to repetitive motions, heavy lifting, or long periods of physical strain, specific job-related activities can lead to joint problems.

• Repetitive Motion: Jobs (office workers/Factory workers) that require constant, repetitive movements (such as typing, assembly line work, or manual labor) can stress the joints over time. This can wear down cartilage and lead to osteoarthritis.
• Heavy Lifting: Professions that involve frequent lifting of heavy objects (Construction/Warehouse) place extra stress on the joints, particularly the back, hips, and knees. Over time, this can accelerate cartilage wear, leading to arthritis.
• Standing for Long Periods: Prolonged standing (Teacher/Chef/Retail workers), especially on hard surfaces, can lead to joint pain and cartilage breakdown in the knees, hips, and lower back.
• High-Impact Physical Activity: Jobs that involve high-impact activities or physical strain on the joints (Athletes/Dancers) can lead to injuries that increase the risk of post-traumatic arthritis.

11. Joint Injuries increase the risk of arthritis

Joints that have suffered injuries previously are more prone to developing osteoarthritis. People with old knee injuries are more likely to get osteoarthritis. Sports injuries can have long-term effects on joint health, sometimes leading to arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis (OA).

12. Impact on Quality of Life

Arthritis, particularly in its advanced stages, can severely limit mobility and daily activities, leading to reduced quality of life and independence for many, especially the elderly.

13. It affects your mental health too

Living with arthritis can be challenging. Chronic pain and limited mobility can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and even depression, so it’s important to take care of both your physical and mental well-being.

14. Rural vs. Urban

Urban areas in India shows a higher prevalence of arthritis, likely due to lifestyle factors such as poor diet and lower physical activity. On the other hand, awareness about arthritis especially in rural areas is relatively low. Many people do not seek timely treatment, which worsens the progression of the disease.

Access to specialist care and modern treatments like joint replacement surgeries is more readily available in urban centers, while rural populations face difficulties accessing healthcare services.

15. Environmental factors

People living in colder climates, such as northern India, tend to experience more arthritis symptoms due to the effect of cold weather.

16. Economic Impact

Arthritis places a significant burden on healthcare in India. The cost of managing arthritis includes medical treatments, surgeries, and long-term care for those with severe disabilities. Many individuals delay seeking treatment due to lack of awareness, cost, or accessibility, leading to further complications.

17. Animals too get Arthritis

Large animals and Dogs & cats also develop Arthritis with age.

These facts highlight the growing prevalence of arthritis in India and the importance of awareness, early diagnosis, right medical care and lifestyle changes for effective management. With the right information and care, many people can reduce their symptoms and lead active lives.

Whether you or someone you know is dealing with arthritis, early treatment and healthy habits can make a big difference.

“Remember, arthritis isn’t just about pain—it's about maintaining mobility, independence, and overall well-being. Spread awareness, seek help early, and take charge of your joint health today for a better future.”

Cj

Upcoming Blog: Understanding Osteoarthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment