Understanding the Risk Factors for Arthritis
September 2024
Arthritis includes over 100 different types of joint diseases and conditions and affects people of all ages, genders, and
lifestyles. However, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing arthritis.
By understanding these risk factors, people can take proactive steps to manage their health and wellbeing.
#1. Age
As people get older they have a higher chance of developing osteoarthritis. But in saying that, there are people who live their whole life
and never develop osteoarthritis. Just because you get older, doesn't mean you will develop this form of arthritis, But for some people,
they may be more predisposed to developing it as they age.
While osteoarthritis can be more common in older adults, it's important to note that osteoarthritis and other types of arthritis, like
inflammatory forms of arthritis, can occur at any age.
For more information read our free infosheet on
Osteoarthritis.
#2. Genetics
Family history and genetics also play a role in the development of arthritis. Certain types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis and
ankylosing spondylitis, are known to run in families (6).
If a close relative has arthritis, you may be at an increased risk of developing the condition yourself. It's important to note that having a
family member with inflammatory arthritis doesn't mean everyone in the family will develop the condition.
While you cannot change your genetic makeup, being aware of your family history can prompt early monitoring and intervention.
For more information read our free article on Arthritis
& Genetics.
#3. Gender
Gender is another factor that influences the likelihood of developing arthritis. In general, women are more likely than men to develop most
types of arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Hormonal differences are believed to play a role, as estrogen is thought to protect against the breakdown of cartilage, while its decline
after menopause may increase the risk (1).
For more information read our free article on Menopause
& Arthritis Connection.
#4. Above a Healthy Weight
Being over a healthy weight is a risk factor for osteoarthritis, particularly in the weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine
(2).
The extra weight puts additional stress on these joints, leading to the breakdown of cartilage over time, and fat tissue produces
proteins that can cause harmful inflammation in and around your joints (2,3). It is estimated for every kilo of excess weight we carry,
an extra load of 4kgs is put on our knee joints. This not only increases the risk of developing arthritis, it may also increase the pain and
swelling associated with the conditions.
Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce your risk of developing osteoarthritis and other related joint issues.
For more information read our free article on Weight Loss &
Arthritis.
#5. Previous Joint Injuries
Injuries to the joints, whether from sports, accidents, or repetitive strain, can increase the risk of arthritis later in life.
For example, athletes who have suffered knee injuries are more likely to develop knee osteoarthritis as they age. Even if an injury heals,
it can leave the joint more vulnerable to arthritis in the future (6).
A review identifies that patients with isolated anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are approximately 39% more like to develop OA
(6-8). Whilst those who have a combined ACL and meniscal injuries are 21%-100% more likely to develop OA (6-8). It's important to note
that why OA occurs after ACL and meniscal injuries is still unknown and further research is required (6).
A fracture that crosses a joint surface and damages cartilage increases the risk of developing knee OA by 23-44% (6,9). Proper treatment,
sport injury prevention programs and rehabilitation after an injury are crucial in reducing this risk.
It's important to note that not every person who has an injury will develop OA in the injured joint. Genetic factors play a
significant role in the development of osteoarthritis, accounting for at least 50% of the reason why some people are more likely to develop
the disease than others (6).
For more information on joint protection strategies, read our free article on Protecting
Your Joints.
#6. Occupation
Certain occupations that involve repetitive movements, heavy lifting, kneeling, regular stair climbing, crawling, bending, whole body
vibrations and physically demanding tasks may increase the risk of osteoarthritis (4).
Jobs that require kneeling, squatting, or standing for extended periods can also contribute to joint stress and damage. Jobs that
involve spending a significant amount of time in knee-straining positions (such as floor layers, and carpenters) have been identified
as a risk factor for developing knee osteoarthritis, but this risk is primarily seen in workers over the age of 50 (4,5).
If your work involves these activities, it’s important to take precautions, such as using proper techniques, wearing supportive equipment,
and taking regular breaks to reduce strain on your joints.
#7. Smoking & Alcohol Consumption
Lifestyle choices like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also impact your risk of developing arthritis.
Smoking is associated with an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), likely due to its effects on the immune system and
inflammation. For those with RA that do smoke, it can also worsen symptoms and make medications less effective. Smoking is also a risk
factor for complications during or after surgery. The complications can include slower wound healing, risk of infection, and drug
interactions.
The link between smoking and arthritis is not just limited to RA. It can cause more damage or pain, and less effective treatment for
conditions like back pain, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
Alcohol, when consumed in excess, can contribute to gout by increasing uric acid levels in the body. However, moderate alcohol consumption
has not been consistently linked to a higher risk of arthritis. There are some medications that also don't mix well with alcohol like
non anti-inflammatory steroidal drugs (NSAID's), and some biologics and disease modifying rheumatic drugs (DMARDS).
For more information read our free articles on Smoking
& Arthritis,
or Alcohol & Arthritis.
#8. Diet
While diet alone is not a direct cause of arthritis, it plays a role in managing the risk. Diets high in processed foods, sugars, and
unhealthy fats can contribute to obesity and inflammation, both of which increase the risk of arthritis (10).
On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and support
overall joint health. For example, the Mediterranean diet, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, has been associated with better
health outcomes (10).
**** Whether there are specific foods that trigger symptoms is still to be proven by research, however for people who
may have identified potential trigger foods, trialing reducing or limiting these foods might be beneficial for some. But this can
be so different for every person and guidance should be sought by a dietitian before removing core food groups or food types from your
diet.
For more information read our free article on Is
There An 'Ultimate Diet for Arthritis'.
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Sources:
1. Roman-Blas, Jorge A et al. “Osteoarthritis associated with estrogen deficiency.” Arthritis research & therapy vol.
11,5 (2009): 241. doi:10.1186/ar2791
2. Arthritis Foundation. How fat affects osteoarthritis [cited 28 Aug 2024]. Available from: https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/about-arthritis/related-conditions/other-diseases/how-fat-affects-osteoarthritis
3. Nedunchezhiyan, Udhaya et al. “Obesity, Inflammation, and Immune System in Osteoarthritis.” Frontiers in immunology vol.
13 907750. 4 Jul. 2022, doi:10.3389/fimmu.2022.907750
4. Yucesoy, Berran et al. “Occupational and genetic risk factors for osteoarthritis: a review.” Work (Reading, Mass.) vol.
50,2 (2015): 261-73. doi:10.3233/WOR-131739
5. Jensen LK, Mikkelsen S, Loft IP, Eenberg W, Bergmann I, Logager V. Radiographic knee osteoarthritis in floorlayers and
carpenters. Scandinavian journal of work, environment and health. 2000 Jun;26(3):257–62. PubMed PMID: 10901119. Epub
2000/07/20. eng
6. Thomas, Abbey C et al. “Epidemiology of Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis.” Journal of athletic training vol. 52,6
(2017): 491-496. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-51.5.08
7. Lebel B, Hulet C, Galaud B, Burdin G, Locker B, Vielpeau C. . Arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament
using bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft: a minimum 10-year follow-up. Am J Sports Med. 2008; 36 7: 1275–
1282
8. 34. Neuman P, Englund M, Kostogiannis I, Friden T, Roos H, Dahlberg LE. . Prevalence of tibiofemoral osteoarthritis 15
years after nonoperative treatment of anterior cruciate ligament injury: a prospective cohort study. Am J Sports Med.
2008; 36 9: 1717– 1725.
9. Honkonen SE. . Degenerative arthritis after tibial plateau fractures. J Orthop Trauma.
1995; 9 4: 273– 277.
10. Shekhar, Kartikey V et al. “Diet and Lifestyle Impact on Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Comprehensive Review.” Cureus vol.
15,11 e48625. 10 Nov. 2023, doi:10.7759/cureus.48625
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