Journal of Progressive Medicine and Health Care

Abstract

Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent rheumatic disease, affecting 47% of the population. It is a condition with a worldwide distribution, and its prevalence increases with age. This research constitutes an analytical epide miological case-control study aimed at analyzing the personal and work-related determinants of osteoarthri tis. A survey, using dichotomous questions and a Likert scale, was administered to elderly patients attending a health center in western Spain. The study included 210 participants in a 1:2 ratio (70 cases and 140 controls). Of the 210 participants, 55% are male with an average age of 49, 41.2% are housewives, 28% are laborers, 37% have secondary education, 50% are from urban areas, and 51% are in stable unions.

Regarding disc alterations (vertebral column), it was shown that the probability of developing osteoarthritis was 2.2 times higher (p=0.04). People with arthritis of the hands were associated with a 2.7 times greater risk of developing osteoarthritis of the upper phalangeal extremities (p=0.002). Cruciate ligament injury from different causes was shown to be a risk factor, increasing the probability of developing osteoarthritis by 7.03 times ( p=0.001).

Regarding the work environment, jobs involving plumbing (masonry) are associated with a 1.5-fold increased risk of developing osteoarthritis (p=0.04). Therefore, promoting self-care and avoiding trauma are important for preventing and treating joint diseases that can lead to osteoarthritis.