Osteoarthritis Prevalence: The Canadian Landscape
Recent reports indicate a substantial portion of the Canadian population lives with osteoarthritis (OA). The Arthritis Society of Canada states that approximately 15% of Canadians aged 20 and over have OA. This translates to more than 4 million Canadians, making it the most common form of arthritis. Data from the Public Health Agency of Canada (2016–2017) reported that 13.6% of Canadians aged 20 and older had diagnosed osteoarthritis. While prevalence rises with age, over half (52%) of Canadians living with OA are under the age of 65. Many individuals are diagnosed before age 45, highlighting its impact on working-age people. Some younger adults with OA experience severe pain at similar rates to seniors over 75.
Key Demographic and Regional Differences
Statistics show that osteoarthritis affects different populations in Canada with differences across age, sex, and geography.
Sex and Gender
OA is more common in women than in men. About 18% of Canadian women aged 20 and older have OA, compared to 11% of men. Factors like hormones, socioeconomic status, and longer life expectancy contribute to these differences.
Geographic Variations
Studies in Canada indicate some provincial and regional variations. Research in Alberta highlighted rural-urban disparities, with factors like lower socioeconomic status and less access to care influencing health outcomes in rural areas. Earlier studies noted similar patterns with higher arthritis prevalence in rural communities. These insights are valuable for health services planning.
Comorbidities
Individuals with OA are more likely to have other chronic conditions. Over two-thirds (70%) of people with OA have at least one additional chronic condition. Common comorbidities include hypertension, depression, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This complexity highlights the need for comprehensive healthcare strategies.
Comparing Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis
It is crucial to distinguish between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). While both are forms of arthritis, they differ significantly in cause and impact. The table below outlines key distinctions based on information from MyHealth Alberta and the Public Health Agency of Canada.
| Feature | Osteoarthritis (OA) | Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Caused by mechanical wear and tear on the joints. | An autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks its own joints. |
| Prevalence in Canada | Affects over 4 million Canadians; about 15% of those 20+. | Affects about 1% of Canadians. |
| Onset | Can begin at any time, but typically starts later in life. | Can begin at any time in life. |
| Symptoms | Joint ache and tenderness, often with little or no swelling. | Joint pain, swelling, and redness/inflammation. |
| Symmetry | Often affects joints asymmetrically, starting on one side. | Often affects joints symmetrically, on both sides of the body. |
| Morning Stiffness | Usually lasts for less than one hour. | Usually lasts for more than one hour. |
| General Symptoms | Typically localized to affected joints, no systemic symptoms. | Accompanied by frequent fatigue and a general feeling of being unwell. |
The Rising Burden and Future Projections
The prevalence of osteoarthritis in Canada is expected to increase significantly. Due to an aging population and rising rates of obesity, the Arthritis Society projects that the number of people with arthritis will grow by 50% by 2045, reaching approximately 9 million Canadians. Other studies project that by 2040, as many as 1 in 4 Canadians will be affected by OA.
The rising prevalence has significant economic consequences. OA is a primary driver of joint replacement surgery and healthcare costs are substantial. A 2024 analysis cited on {Link: Healthing.ca https://www.healthing.ca/arthritis/osteoarthritis-in-canada-stats-impact-and-resources} projects direct costs to increase nearly 2.6-fold from 2010 to 2031.
Managing Osteoarthritis
Effective management is critical to help those with OA maintain function and quality of life. Current recommendations often include a combination of strategies:
- Regular Exercise: Therapeutic exercise helps relieve symptoms and improve function. Programs like GLA:D® Canada offer structured exercise therapy and education.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy body weight is essential, as obesity is a significant modifiable risk factor.
- Medication: Prescription and non-prescription medications, including NSAIDs, can help manage pain and inflammation.
- Education and Self-Management: Educational programs empower patients to better manage their condition.
- Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy: These services help improve joint mobility, decrease pain, and maintain function.
Conclusion
With an estimated 15% of Canadians aged 20 and over affected, osteoarthritis represents a major public health challenge. Its impact extends beyond physical symptoms to affect mental health, work participation, and overall quality of life. Understanding the prevalence and its associated burdens is crucial for healthcare planning and individual well-being.
