Bhubaneswar: Diabetes has emerged as a significant global health issue, largely driven by lifestyle choices. A staggering 537 million people (10.5% of the global population) were projected to be living with diabetes in 2021; it was also the 7th leading cause of death. A study from the High-tech Medical College in Bhubaneswar revealed a prevalence of 15.6 per cent in the city, with rates increasing with age.
The link between diabetes, bone and joint health
Diabetes patients are at an elevated risk of encountering various bone and joint disorders. While the precise causes can vary, contributing factors often include diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage), arterial disease, and obesity. Osteoarthritis is a joint disorder characterized by the gradual breakdown of cartilage. It frequently affects knee and hip joints, particularly in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Osteoarthritis in Odisha: A Growing Concern
Osteoarthritis (OA) is an ailment that plagues roughly 62.35 million individuals in India. Even in rural regions of the state of Odisha, this condition has become a prevalent concern. A study encompassing five Odisha villages revealed that one in every three individuals over the age of 55 complained of symptoms associated with OA.
Early Identification and Treatment
Dr. Aniruddh Dash, HOD, Department of Orthopedics, Robotic Knee Surgery, IMS & SUM Hospital, SUM Ultimate Medicare, emphasizes on these connections and said ” Osteoarthritis is a condition characterized by the gradual deterioration of joints. It is seen that people with diabetes are more prone to Osteoarthritis. As the condition advances, even daily activities can become painful. Thus, early detection and treatment tailored to the specific stage of OA is important. While advanced surgical procedures offer treatment options that can greatly improve patients’ lives, a holistic approach that incorporates lifestyle modifications, especially weight management, is essential for achieving the best outcomes. Remember that Treatment Zaroori Hai.”
Treatment Options
Available treatment options aim to relieve pain, improve functionality, and slow down disease progression. These options comprise physical therapy, pain-relieving medications, and corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, surgical procedures like total knee replacement or hip replacements may be recommended.
In acknowledging these multifaceted health concerns, it is also important to promote awareness, and preventive measures to foster healthier and more active lives for all.
Reference
1. Assessment of Prevalence and Risk Factors of Diabetes Mellitus among the Adult Population in the Campus of Hi‑Tech Medical College and Hospital, Bhubaneswar. Accessed from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/364350636_Assessment_of_Prevalence_and_Risk_Factors_of_Diabetes_Mellitus_among_the_Adult_Population_in_the_Campus_of_Hi-Tech_Medical_College_and_Hospital_Bhubaneswar
2. Burden of osteoarthritis in India and its states, 1990-2019: findings from the Global Burden of disease study 2019. Accessed from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35598766/
3. Prevalence and Risk Factors of Knee Osteoarthritis in a Rural Community of Odisha: A Snap Shot Study. Accessed from: https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Prevalence-and-Risk-Factors-of-Knee-Osteoarthritis-Das-Intern/4db08b567e1355c77765953dcdb8630f35013d3e
