Osteoarthritis among individuals with diabetes mellitus in Saudi Arabia

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by the degeneration of hyaline joint cartilage, hypertrophic changes in the joint capsule, and subchondral remodeling with osteophyte production. Both Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and OA are prevalent chronic conditions, affecting 15% and 8.5% of the global population, respectively. Studies indicate a correlation between elevated comorbidities and increased knee pain, with metabolic syndrome (including diabetes, hypertension, elevated cholesterol, and obesity) linked to more severe OA pain. Research has shown that individuals with T2DM are at a higher risk of developing OA.

To determine the prevalence of OA and its impact on adults with diabetes in Saudi Arabia.

This cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2024 to March 2025 among diabetic adults in Saudi Arabia. The study population included all adult Saudi individuals over 40 years old with diabetes and OA. Inclusion criteria encompassed all adult diabetic patients in Saudi Arabia, regardless of gender, while nondiabetic individuals were excluded. Data collection involved a self-administered questionnaire distributed via WhatsApp, with informed consent obtained from participants. The WOMAC criteria were used to score OA symptoms, covering pain (0-20), stiffness (0-8), and physical activity (0-68). Data entry was performed using Microsoft Excel and analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 20.0.

The study investigated the prevalence of OA among adults with diabetes in Saudi Arabia, involving 185 participants with a mean age of 44.2 years. The findings indicated significant OA-related pain and stiffness, with 32.5% experiencing moderate to severe pain. Notably, 14.1% reported high levels of pain and stiffness impacting physical activity. The mean WOMAC total score was 19.9, reflecting the low severity of knee OA symptoms. Statistically significant relationships were found between pain levels and various factors, including age, diabetes type, and weight. Overall, while OA was present, the severity of symptoms among this diabetic cohort was low. These findings are relevant for primary care physicians in Saudi Arabia who manage diabetic patients at risk of OA.

This study contributes to the growing body of literature on the prevalence of OA among adults with diabetes in Saudi Arabia. The findings highlight the complex interplay between these two chronic conditions and underscore the importance of comprehensive management strategies that address both diabetes and OA.