Osteoarthritis May Affect 20 Percent of Older Americans by 2030, Experts Warn

Experts are warning that about 20 percent of the American population over the age of 65 will be at increased risk of osteoarthritis (OA) by 2030, reports Newswire . OA currently affects about 30 million Americans, and ways for cutting the risk of developing the disease include weight loss, staying physically active, and natural measures that could help strengthen the joint cartilage. There also are various treatment options for managing OA symptoms, like exercise, weight control, joint protection techniques, physical therapy, and arthritis medications. In managing the disease, many people resort to pharmaceuticals like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs — but their use could lead to undesirable health consequences. In particular, these medications can have side effects like stomach ulcers, heartburn, stomach pain, ringing in the ears, and elevated risk of stroke or heart attack. Persons who want to protect themselves against such side effects may turn to safer alternatives like glucosamine. Glucosamine is found naturally inside the body or in outside sources like shellfish, and it has demonstrated the ability to help restore the health of cartilage damaged by OA.