Relationship between RAR and the risk of osteoarthritis: a comprehensive analysis based on NHANES data (1999-2018)

Area of Science:

• Biomarkers
• Epidemiology
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Osteoarthritis (OA) is a widespread degenerative joint disease with significant public health implications.
• Current limitations exist in identifying reliable biomarkers for early OA risk assessment.
• Understanding novel risk factors is crucial for proactive OA management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between the red blood cell distribution width to albumin ratio (RAR) and the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
• To evaluate the potential of RAR as a predictive biomarker for OA risk.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from 35,902 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
• Weighted logistic regression models were used to assess the association between RAR quartiles and OA risk, controlling for confounders.
• Restricted cubic spline (RCS) models explored non-linear relationships and dose-response effects.

Main Results:

• A significant positive association was found between RAR and OA risk (OR=1.91 for highest quartile, P < 10⁻⁹).
• The relationship between RAR and OA risk demonstrated a non-linear pattern.
• Heterogeneity in RAR's effect was observed across different population subgroups.

Conclusions:

• Elevated RAR levels are positively correlated with an increased risk of osteoarthritis.
• RAR shows potential as a novel biomarker for OA risk stratification.
• Further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm causality and clinical utility.