Lifestyle behaviour changes associated with osteoarthritis: a prospective cohort study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent condition affecting millions, often necessitating lifestyle modifications for management.
• Understanding how lifestyle behaviors evolve around the time of OA diagnosis is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare changes in lifestyle behaviors over nine years in women with and without osteoarthritis (OA).
• To identify specific positive and negative lifestyle shifts associated with OA diagnosis and progression.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort study utilizing data from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (1945-51 cohort).
• Analysis of self-reported lifestyle behaviors (weight, sitting time, physical activity, alcohol, smoking) from surveys in 2001, 2004, 2007, and 2010.
• Comparison of lifestyle changes between women diagnosed with OA (n=610) and those without OA (n=3810) across three time intervals: pre-diagnosis, around diagnosis, and post-diagnosis.

Main Results:

• A greater proportion of women with OA (38%) made at least one positive lifestyle change compared to women without OA (28%).
• Women with OA showed higher rates of significant weight loss (>5 kg) and reduced sitting time following diagnosis.
• Conversely, women with OA also exhibited more negative lifestyle changes, including weight gain (>5 kg) and increased sitting time around and after diagnosis.
• A notable increase in smoking initiation was observed among women with OA post-diagnosis compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• Lifestyle behavior changes in women following an osteoarthritis (OA) diagnosis are complex, encompassing both positive and negative adaptations.
• While some women with OA successfully implement healthier habits, others experience detrimental lifestyle shifts, highlighting the need for tailored support.
• Consistent clinical guidance and support are essential to empower individuals with OA to make and sustain positive lifestyle modifications for better symptom management and overall health.