What are the risk factors for osteoarthritis (OA)?11
Joint injury or overuse
Injury or overuse, such as knee bending and repetitive stress on a joint, can damage a joint and increase the risk of OA in that joint.
Age
The risk of developing OA increases with age.
Gender
Women are more likely to develop OA than men, especially after age 50.
Obesity
Extra weight puts more stress on joints, particularly weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees. This stress increases the risk of OA in that joint. Obesity may also have metabolic effects that increase the risk of OA.
Race
Some Asian populations have lower risk for OA.
