Did you know? According to doctors and experts, 1 out of three women in India over the age of 60 show a higher prevalence rate than men for the Osteoarthritis condition. For many females, the condition develops after menopause. Even in their early 20s and 30s, women are more susceptible to arthritis than men.
This is not just a national occurrence, even globally, women are found to be more at the receiving end of the arthritis condition as compared to men. For reference, CDC reports suggest, around 1 in every four women are diagnosed with arthritis compared to around 1 in five men.
But, why the disparity? Why is arthritis more common in females than males? What are the reasons that cause osteoarthritis in women on such a deeper level? It might come down to these 5 reasons that cause osteoarthritis in women.
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Societal differences and social obligation
- Extra weight
- Genetics
- Human biology
Let’s explore them in detail.
1) Hormonal fluctuations
A woman’s body produces oestrogen hormone which is said to protect the cartilage from inflammation. But, as the females age, they move towards menopause. This leads to a reduction in oestrogen levels. As the oestrogen levels decrease in women, their bones tend to lose protection and the chances of being diagnosed with osteoarthritis increases. Experts believe there is an undeniable link between oestrogen and osteoarthritis, however, research is still being conducted for conclusive proof of the same.
2) Societal differences and social obligation
Unfortunately, gender differences are still prevalent and exist in our society. This leads to differences in treatment for females as compared to males. Some of the major areas where the aftermath can be felt are social support, financial resources, decision-making behaviours, and also access to healthcare. Additionally, women have a higher chance of undergoing joint replacement surgery as compared to men.
3) Extra weight
Obesity is the most common reason for getting diagnosed with osteoarthritis in males and females. The extra weight puts direct pressure on the joints and increases the chances of inflammation. Women tend to put on a few extra kgs during their menopause period which is partially the reason why they develop osteoarthritis at an older age.
4) Genetics
Genetics play a very big role when it comes to the prevalence of osteoarthritis in women or men. If your ancestors suffered from arthritis, there is a higher chance of you getting the condition. For women, if your mother has or had arthritis, then the chances are higher that you might develop osteoarthritis at the same age and possibly in the same joints.
*The information is based on general research. In-depth studies are still underway for conclusive proof.
5) Human anatomy
The bone composition and structure of men and women are built in their own unique ways. When we talk about females, their body is built from a birth-giving perspective. Thus, some bones are more elastic in nature than men - making women more prone to injuries and more likely to develop conditions such as osteoarthritis.
*The information is based on general research. In-depth studies are still underway for conclusive proof.
How Osteoarthritis in women can be managed with proper care
While the debate regarding “Is osteoarthritis more common in males or females?” is still on, you can take some proactive steps to try & prevent the onset of the condition.
- Manage your weight to ensure your feet are light and your knees are not under pressure
- Stay away from smoking and alcohol consumption
- Exercise regularly and keep your joints active & healthy
- Eat healthy meals and focus on meeting your daily nutritional requirement
- Stay in touch with your doctor and take the necessary preventive measures recommended
- Focus on improving your joint flexibility
- Take joint supplements such as three60+ Daily Joint Care & Protect tablets to improve your bone density and strengthen your joints from within
The prevalence of osteoarthritis in women might be higher than in men but with daily care and the right nutrition, you can stay ahead of the condition. Moreover, keep a check on your joints and notice if you’re experiencing any of the arthritis symptoms like joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty in moving. Taking care of your joints will yield long-term benefits and allow you to move freely even when your hair turns grey.
