High cholesterol 'may play a role in onset of osteoarthritis'

This study highlights a brand new angle from which to consider how the development of osteoarthritis occurs. Most research of high cholesterol levels in the past has focused on arterial disease and other heart conditions, but this new insight indicates that cholesterol can also impact joint health. Moreover, the research has provided proof-of-concept evidence to indicate that antioxidant therapies can help to reverse this process, meaning they could hold promise as a means of treating osteoarthritis in future. Dr Indira Prasadam, a researcher involved in the work at Queensland University of Technology, said:"Our team has already begun working alongside dietitians to try to educate the public about healthy eating and how to keep cholesterol levels at a manageable level that won't damage joints." Arthritis Research UK's view Dr Natalie Carter, head of research and evaluation, said:"This is an interesting study, which helps us begin to understand how fats and cholesterol levels may contribute to the development of osteoarthritis. This could lead to potential new treatment options helping people with osteoarthritis to break free from the limits of their condition, which affects nearly nine million people in the UK. "We are currently funding research into understanding why osteoarthritis develops, identify markers which could indicate risk of developing the condition, and find new and more effective treatments for people with osteoarthritis."

Source: Arthritis Research UK - October 20, 2016 Category: Rheumatology Source Type: news