Who does osteoarthritis affect?

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and affects about 8 million people in the UK. We don't know why some people get osteoarthritis and others don't. But there are certain things that increase your chances of getting osteoarthritis. Some of these - such as your weight - you have some control over. Others you are born with, such as the genes you inherit from your parents. You're more likely to get osteoarthritis if you:

1. Are getting older

   Although osteoarthritis can develop at any age, it's much more common to get it as you get older. Most people who have it are over 40.

2. Are a woman

   More women than men get osteoarthritis.

3. Have had a joint injury or disease

   Osteoarthritis can develop in a joint that has been damaged by an injury or an operation. If the joint has not been given enough time to heal it may be at increased risk of osteoarthritis in later life - perhaps many years later. Joints can also become damaged by other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis - leaving them more prone to osteoarthritis. Getting these conditions treated can reduce your chances of the joint being damaged, so make sure you see your doctor with any new symptoms.

4. Have a family history of arthritis

   If someone in your family has osteoarthritis then you're more likely to get it too. It's thought that between four and six out of every 10 cases of osteoarthritis may have a genetic element. However, the genes that carry the condition are not yet known.

5. Are overweight

   If you're overweight, extra strain is put on your joints - especially your knees and hips - and this increases the chances that you'll get osteoarthritis. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of osteoarthritis.