Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It primarily affects the joints, with hip and knee joints being commonly affected areas.

On the other hand, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity globally. While both osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease are distinct conditions, recent research suggests a potential relationship between the two.

This article aims to delve deeper into the relationship between hip/knee osteoarthritis and cardiovascular risk, shedding light on the interconnectedness of these conditions.

1. Prevalence of Osteoarthritis and Cardiovascular Disease

Osteoarthritis is a common musculoskeletal disorder, especially in older adults. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 10% of men and 18% of women aged 60 years and above have symptomatic osteoarthritis.

The prevalence of hip and knee osteoarthritis is also high, impacting individuals’ quality of life and mobility.

Cardiovascular disease, on the other hand, encompasses various conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, including heart attacks, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.

It is the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for approximately 17.9 million deaths each year, according to the WHO.

2. Shared Risk Factors

Several risk factors, such as age, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle, are known to contribute to both osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease.

These factors can have detrimental effects on joint health and heart health, leading to the development and progression of both conditions. For instance, obesity increases the risk of both hip/knee osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease, as excess weight puts added stress on the joints and increases the workload on the heart.

Furthermore, inflammation plays a crucial role in the development and progression of both osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease. Chronic low-grade inflammation accompanies both conditions, indicating a potential common underlying mechanism.

3. Impact of Osteoarthritis on Cardiovascular Risk

Several studies have suggested that osteoarthritis, particularly hip and knee osteoarthritis, may increase cardiovascular risk.

The pain and functional limitations associated with osteoarthritis can lead to reduced physical activity levels, contributing to a sedentary lifestyle. Lack of exercise is known to be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, emphasizing the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle even when managing osteoarthritis.

Additionally, the chronic systemic inflammation observed in osteoarthritis may have a direct impact on cardiovascular health.

Inflammation promotes the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes. The presence of hip/knee osteoarthritis may contribute to overall inflammation and subsequently increase the likelihood of cardiovascular complications.

4. Impact of Cardiovascular Disease on Osteoarthritis

Conversely, cardiovascular disease can also affect the progression and severity of osteoarthritis.

Reduced blood flow and inadequate oxygen supply due to compromised cardiovascular health can impair joint health, exacerbating the development and symptoms of osteoarthritis. A compromised cardiovascular system may also limit the effectiveness of treatments for osteoarthritis, making it more challenging to alleviate pain and improve joint function.

5. Managing Both Conditions

Given the interconnectedness of hip/knee osteoarthritis and cardiovascular risk, it is crucial to adopt a multidisciplinary approach to manage both conditions effectively.

Lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss, regular physical activity, and a heart-healthy diet, can address common risk factors for both conditions and improve overall health outcomes.

Additionally, managing inflammation becomes paramount in addressing both osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help alleviate joint pain in osteoarthritis, while also potentially reducing systemic inflammation. However, it is important to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized treatment recommendations and to consider the potential side effects of NSAIDs, especially in individuals with cardiovascular risk factors.

6. Conclusion

The relationship between hip/knee osteoarthritis and cardiovascular risk is an emerging area of research.

While there is still much to be discovered, current evidence suggests a bidirectional relationship, with each condition potentially influencing the development and progression of the other. Understanding this relationship can help healthcare professionals provide comprehensive care and interventions that target both joint health and heart health, improving overall outcomes for individuals with these conditions.