NY Times on Arthritis Prevention Save

A reader question ("Ask Well") to the New York times wonders "is arthritis avoidable"?

A recent survey suggests that up to 60% of adults have been told by an HCP they had some form of arthritis.

The article points out that "aches and pains" may be more prevalent with age, but is not necessarily a diagnosis of arthritis. 

The response written by non-rheumatologist author attempts an answer by touching on modifiable risk factors, that include:

• The most common form of arthritis is Osteoarthritis - often a consequence of injury, chronic conditions like is obesity, heart disease or diabetes.
• Exercise may worsen established arthritis, but is unlikely to be the sole cause of arthritis, and in fact is more likely to prevent arthritis.
• 2015 review of 44 clinical trials, for instance, researchers found that participants who exercised regularly had reduced knee pain related to osteoarthritis and improved physical function and quality of life.
• While often advocated, diet and supplements are not proven to prevent most forms of arthritis. Yet a healthy diet and appropriate weight are key to avoiding arthritis.  (Obesity is often a risk factor for many types of arthritis)