Early-Stage Osteoarthritis & Time for Action: Biomarkers, Staging and Prevention
10.4055/jkoa.2024.59.5.319
- Author:
Man Soo KIM
1
;
Dong Ho KWAK
;
Jeong Han LEE
Author Information
1. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Symposium
- From:The Journal of the Korean Orthopaedic Association
2024;59(5):319-326
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The imperative for immediate action to address early-stage osteoarthritis (OA) arises from the rapid increase in patient numbers and the considerable economic impact. Currently, managing early-stage OA is fraught with difficulties, encompassing the absence of precise diagnostic and classification criteria, effective risk factor assessment, patient stratification, disease-modifying therapies, and comprehensive management strategies. Considerable efforts are being made to define and categorize patient populations, so-called stratification with symptomatic early-stage OA, through validated classification criteria. Accurate disease staging is essential for guiding early intervention strategies and effective patient management. Proper identification of early-stage cases is vital for implementing proactive measures that alleviate the disease burden. Biomarkers play a pivotal role in identifying and understanding early-stage OA. Validated biomarkers could offer insights into disease risk, progression, and potential therapeutic targets. This holds promise for guiding clinical studies, facilitating intervention trials, and advancing novel therapies. Preventive strategies, including lifestyle modifications and targeted interventions, can potentially reduce the long-term impact of OA. This involves structured education, exercise, weight management, and addressing lifestyle-related risk factors for disease progression. Implementing these actions requires a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and patients. Embracing these strategies can advance the understanding, management, and prevention of OA, ultimately improving the lives of those affected by this challenging condition.
