OBJECTIVEThis study aimed to understand the prevalence rate, epidemiological characteristics and relevant factors of arthritis in Shanghai.

METHODSA sample of 7 575 residents aged 15 years and above was drawn from 6 communities under multiple stage cluster sampling. A household survey with questionnaire was carried out to differentiate both undiagnosed patients and those with definite arthritis. Those who had not been diagnosed before were asked to carry further clinical examinations by a rheumatologist.

RESULTSThe prevalence rate of arthritis was 6.11%, including osteoarthritis (OA) 4.18%, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) 0.52%, gout 0.28%, ankylosing spondylitis (AS) 0.28%, rheumatic arthritis 0.49% and other types arthritis 0.82%. Arthritis was significantly related to cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease and gastrointestinal disease. Age, female and obesity might serve as risk factors for arthritis. Physical labors and living in rural area might have protecting effects.

CONCLUSIONElderly and female seemed to be at high risk for arthritis. Weight control and more exercise should be encouraged to reduce the risks. For arthritis patients, treatment to other chronic diseases should not be ignored.