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A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease or condition.
It is possible to develop osteoarthritis with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing osteoarthritis. If you have a number of risk factors, ask yourdoctor what you can do to reduce your risk.
Specific Lifestyle Factor
Medical Condition
You have an increased risk of developing osteoarthritis if you have or have had:
Age
Gender
Genetic Factors
The tendency to develop osteoarthritis frequently runs in families.
Ethnic Background
Risk factors for developing osteoarthritis in specific joints are different for different ethnic backgrounds. For example:
Other
You are more likely to develop osteoarthritis if you:
References:
Arthritis Foundation website. Available at: http://www.arthritis.org/ .
Conn’s Current Therapy . 54th ed. W.B. Saunders Company; 2002.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niams.nih.gov/ .
Manek NJ, Lane NE. Osteoarthritis: current concepts in diagnosis and management. American Family Physician . 2000;51(6). Available at: http://www.aafp.org/afp/20000315/1795.html.
Last reviewed September 2009 by Jill D. Landis, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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