Prevalence, pattern and determinants of radiographic hand osteoarthritis in five Russian community-based samples

The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence and pattern of radiographic hand osteoarthritis (OA) and its association with age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and place of residence in five Russian community-based samples.

Cross-sectional observational study: The study population comprised ethnic Russians [821 males and 1076 females, aged 18-90 (mean 46.2+/-15.3)], living in five different geographic areas. OA was evaluated for 14 joints of the left hand according to the Kellgren and Lawrence grading scheme. Statistical analyses included prevalence estimation, logistic and generalized model regressions, and chi(2) tests.

We present extensive data on the prevalence of radiographic hand OA in a total Russian sample. After the age of 65, 98.5% of males and 96.8% of females had at least one affected joint. In individuals younger than 50, OA was most prevalent in the metacarpophalangeal joints, and after age 50, was most prevalent in the distal interphalangeal joints. Prevalence of hand OA was significantly higher in males than in females in ages 35-50. After adjustment for age, age(2) and place of residence, there were no associations between prevalence or severity of hand OA and BMI.

Significant differences in prevalence and severity of hand OA were found between the Russian samples living in different geographic areas. Additional studies are needed to discover the mechanism defining the association between places of residence and development of hand OA.