Does Physical Activity Confound Race Differences in Osteoarthritis-Related Functional Limitation?

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of functional limitation.
• Racial disparities exist in OA incidence and outcomes.
• The role of physical activity in confounding these disparities requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the extent to which physical activity confounds the relationship between race and osteoarthritis-related functional limitation.
• To investigate if increased physical activity mitigates racial differences in OA functional decline.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative study.
• Included participants with or at risk for knee OA who wore accelerometers.
• Assessed moderate to vigorous physical activity and defined functional limitation via walking speed and WOMAC scores.

Main Results:

• African American participants exhibited a higher likelihood of functional limitation compared to White participants.
• Adjusting for physical activity partially attenuated the association between race and functional limitation.
• Further adjustments for clinical and demographic factors showed a significant decrease in the association between race and low physical functioning (WOMAC).

Conclusions:

• Physical activity does not entirely account for racial disparities in OA-related functional limitation.
• Other factors contribute to health inequities in OA outcomes.
• Addressing broader barriers to health equity is crucial for minority populations.