Osteoarthritis Sufferers Believed to Be at an Increased Risk of Heart Disease

(Newswire.net — July 25, 2017) Orlando, FL — Osteoarthritis is popularized by the pain and immobility it causes. However, it appears that sufferers are not only prone to symptoms, but also other medical conditions because of this disease.

Osteoarthritis sufferers are believed to be at an increased risk of heart disease. This type of arthritic condition is characterized by cartilage breakdown. The cartilage is what cushions the ends of the bones, which is where they meet to form joints.

Scientists have been trying to investigate the possibility that having osteoarthritis could be more than just a joint problem. According to research, individuals who suffer from osteoarthritis may also be at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

In December 2013, a study was published in the issue of Arthritis Care & Research. It was conducted by Canadian researchers who found that women and older men suffering from hip or knee OA were more susceptible to hospitalization for heart problems than non-sufferers.

The researchers selected the participants from a sample population registered in a huge Canadian Ministry of Health database. There were an overall number of 12,745 participants diagnosed with osteoarthritis.

The above-mentioned number was matched with almost 37,000 individuals who did not suffer from arthritis. The researchers also revealed that 60% of the participants were women with an average age of 58 that had no cardiovascular problems.

There were factors that the researchers took into account such as age, socioeconomic status, sex, and health conditions. Examples of these health conditions are high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes. 

The participants of the study were followed for 13 years. Within the study duration, almost 8,000 were hospitalized for a various types of heart disease, which includes congestive heart failure, heart attack, and stroke.

The data analysis demonstrates that having osteoarthritis may lead to an increased risk of hospitalization for cardiovascular disease in women of all ages and men who were 65 years and older. The results were compared to their counterparts who did not have osteoarthritis.

In women younger than 65 years, the estimated increased risk of CVD was 23%. It was also found that the risk in older women was 17% and 15% among older men.

The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has been linked with cardiovascular risks. This type of medication is quite popular among individuals who suffer from arthritis pain and inflammation.

There are safer alternatives to NSAIDs, such as glucosamine. Glucosamine is believed to be one of the most powerful joint health-enhancing supplements today.

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