Spotlight on Early-Onset Arthritis in Young Adults

Arthritis is linked to aging, but did you know it can affect people at any stage of life, including young adults and teenagers? While it may not be as common in this age group, early-onset arthritis can significantly impact their lives. Medical experts state that a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, lack of exercise, and obesity increase the risk of arthritis.

According to some studies, 8 out of every 100,000 people between 18 and 34 are affected by RA.? Annually, over 15 million adults worldwide are impacted by osteoarthritis, with India accounting for 22% to 39% of the global cases, making it the second most common rheumatologic problem. Moreover, as per the statistics of WHO, in 2019, approximately 18 million individuals across the globe were diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Despite being a systemic autoimmune disease impacting multiple body systems, rheumatoid arthritis most commonly manifests in the joints of the hands, wrists, feet, ankles, knees, shoulders, and elbows.

?

Understanding the Increasing Prevalence of Arthritis in Adults

Young adults, especially those between 25 to 45, are more suspected to have early-onset arthritis due to a sedentary lifestyle and obesity. In a survey conducted on more than 1 lac patients, Redcliffe Labs found elevated levels of rheumatoid factor in nearly 12% of individuals aged 26 to 40. Arthritis includes various conditions prevalent in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease characterized by peripheral and symmetrical polyarthritis. It can be divided into Very Early Rheumatoid Arthritis (VERA), diagnosed up to 3 months of symptoms, and late-onset (Late Early Rheumatoid Arthritis – LERA), diagnosed between 3 and 12 months. We have set our goals to identify people in VERA. Several factors contribute to this growing trend. Firstly, an aging population, especially in developed nations, plays a pivotal role as arthritis is more prevalent in older people. Additionally, sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary choices, and rising rates of obesity are exacerbating the problem.

?

?Childhood Arthritis or Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

JIA primarily affects children and adults. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it involves the immune system mistakenly attacking the body's healthy joints. This can lead to inflammation, pain, and swelling in the affected joints, such as knees, wrists, or ankles. This condition impacts a child's physical development, daily activities, and overall quality of life. In severe cases, JIA can lead to joint damage and disability. Early diagnosis and proper management are crucial for improving the quality of life for children with JIA and preventing long-term joint damage.

?

Onset Symptoms of RA in adults

The onset symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults can vary, but typically include:

●????? Joint Pain and Swelling

●????? Stiffness

●????? Fatigue

●????? Warmth and Redness

●????? Fever

●????? Rash

●????? Difficulty in walking and movement

●????? Muscle Weakness

●????? Other symptoms include weight loss and loss of appetite.

?

Factors Contributing to Early-Onset Arthritis

●????? Genetics: Family history can play a role in the development of arthritis. If there's a history of arthritis in your family, you may be at a higher risk.

●????? Lifestyle: Poor diet, lack of exercise, and obesity can increase the risk of arthritis at a young age. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help reduce this risk.

●????? Injuries: Injuries or trauma to the joints can lead to early-onset arthritis. This is especially true for athletes or individuals engaged in physically demanding activities.

●????? Autoimmune Conditions: Certain autoimmune diseases, such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis, can affect children and teenagers, leading to early-onset arthritis.

●????? Smoking: Tobacco increases the risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and also exacerbates the symptoms. It can also lead to additional health issues. As per the study by NIH, 40% of people who have ever smoked are at higher risk than those who have never smoked.

?The spectrum of RA is broad, and RA is the most common type. It is a painful, disabling disease which shortens lifespan and can have a major impact on the systemic health and lifestyle of the patient. Early diagnosis and treatment of RA can markedly decrease disability and pain and very likely lengthen life, and the "window of opportunity" presented in the early stages of the disease must be recognized. Once the diagnosis of RA is made, disease-modifying agents can bring about positive outcomes.

?Living with Arthritis as a young adult

World Arthritis Day is observed on October 12 to promote global awareness of the consequences of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) across diverse audiences. The year's theme is It's in Your Hands, Take Action, which aims to raise awareness about the impact of RMDs.

Rheumatoid arthritis profoundly impacts young adults, significantly affecting their lifestyle and health. The prevalence of arthritis was greatest among adults who were not engaged in any physical activity (30.9%) when compared to those who were minimally active (27.0%) or those who met the recommended levels of physical activity (18.8%). Here's how it affects adults:

●????? Physical Symptoms: ?The early symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. These symptoms can be particularly debilitating, making everyday activities, including walking, dressing, and even holding objects, challenging.

●????? Reduced Mobility: The condition decreases joint flexibility and mobility, making it difficult for young adults to engage in physical activities and exercise, essential for a healthy lifestyle.

●????? Fatigue: Young adults with RA often experience severe fatigue, which can be overwhelming and limit their ability to work, study, or enjoy social activities.

●????? Emotional Impact: Dealing with a chronic condition like RA can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. Young adults may struggle to cope with the emotional toll of the disease, impacting their mental health.

●????? Financial Burden: The cost of healthcare, medication, and potential time off work can significantly burden young adults, affecting their financial stability.

●????? Long-Term Outlook: RA is a lifelong condition, and young adults may worry about the long-term impact on their health and future quality of life.

?Impact of arthritis on work, activity, and social life

RA can interfere with young adults' ability to work or pursue education. Flare-ups, pain, and the need for medical appointments and treatments can disrupt their career and educational goals. Some people may need to change their jobs or careers if their current work is physically demanding and exacerbates their arthritis. Arthritis symptoms can lead to social isolation as people may feel embarrassed about their limited mobility or avoid social events due to pain. ?RA also limits the social activities of adults, or they may face difficulties participating in sports and recreational activities with friends. Arthritis imposes activity limitations in adults. The emotional toll of chronic pain and disability can lead to depression and anxiety, which can further impact one's social life.

?Preventing and Managing Arthritis in the Adults

According to the American College of Rheumatology, arthritis treatment includes medications, non-drug therapies like physical therapy or patient education, and occasionally surgical intervention.

Early-onset arthritis can affect young adults and teenagers, but with awareness, education, and support, we can positively impact their lives. By promoting a healthy lifestyle, early detection, and a supportive community, we can help young people manage and cope with this condition effectively. Consult your doctor to manage your arthritis by maintaining regular appointments with your healthcare provider and taking Arthritis Package. It is essential to understand the severity of the condition and adhere to the treatment plan they have prescribed. We at Redcliffe Labs are trying to bring out the impact of our screening programs to diagnose these cases early so that everyone can live a quality life to otherwise future diagnosed cases. Together, we can raise awareness and provide support.