As Thailand transitions into a fully aged society, joint diseases have become one of the most significant public health challenges. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis can severely affect a person’s mobility and overall quality of life. Although many people consider these conditions to be age-related, the truth is that joint diseases can occur at any age.
According to the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, an estimated 606.9 million people worldwide were living with osteoarthritis, making it a leading cause of disability. The numbers continue to rise due to population aging, lifestyle changes, and increasing rates of obesity. In the United States, nearly 54% of adults aged 75 and older are affected by arthritis (data from 2022–2023).
What Is Osteoarthritis? A Common Condition You Should Understand
Among more than 100 types of joint disorders, osteoarthritis is the most prevalent globally. It affects over 7% of the world’s population, with higher rates seen in women and older adults.
In Thailand, it is estimated that more than 6 million people are living with osteoarthritis, based on national data from recent years.
Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in a joint gradually deteriorates. As the protective layer wears away, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing inflammation, stiffness, and pain.
Risk factors include both non-modifiable factors such as older age, female gender, or genetics, and modifiable factors such as being overweight, occupations involving heavy or repetitive joint use, previous joint injuries, or weak muscles. Recent research also suggests strong associations between osteoarthritis and chronic conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
Managing and Slowing the Progression of Osteoarthritis
Early self-care is essential. When pain or swelling occurs, rest is recommended. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications may help ease symptoms.
Once the pain has improved, physical therapy plays an important role in strengthening muscles and improving joint function.
However, in advanced cases—such as joints with visible deformity—medication and therapy alone may not be enough. Surgical intervention may be considered to reduce pain and restore mobility.
Prevention Tips and Lifestyle Recommendations
To reduce your risk and manage symptoms effectively, focus on modifiable risk factors:
For prevention
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a balanced and nutrient-rich diet
- Engage in regular exercise to strengthen muscles that support the joints
For individuals already diagnosed
- If overweight, work toward gradual weight loss combined with low-impact exercise
- Patients with rheumatoid arthritis or gout should take medications exactly as prescribed and attend regular follow-up appointments
- For those taking immunosuppressive medications, infection prevention is crucial to avoid flare-ups
References
- Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 found approximately 606.9 million osteoarthritis patients worldwide in 2021 (data from Frontiers in Medicine, 2024 and BMJ Global Health, 2025)
- CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) USA reported that nearly 54% of adults aged 75 and older have inflammatory arthritis (2022-2023 data)
- Thailand statistics on osteoarthritis: Although there is no official report of total patients for 2023-2024, it is estimated that there are more than 6 million osteoarthritis patients in Thailand, which is data referenced from the previous period (2018-2019) and continues to be an ongoing significant public health problem
