Knowledge of osteoarthritis and its risk factors among the general population in Bisha, Saudi Arabia, 2024–2025

Abstract

Introduction: Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It is characterized by degenerative changes in the articular cartilage and other joint tissues, with variable synovial inflammation. Its prevalence is rising worldwide, and an estimated 528 million people were affected in 2019. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among residents of Bisha aged 18 years or older. Data were collected with an Arabic, self-administered online questionnaire using convenience sampling. A total of 442 respondents took part. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS version 26. Results: Cartilage degeneration was identified as the mechanism of osteoarthritis by 47.5% of respondents, while 52.5% chose another response or were unsure. Osteoarthritis was recognized as a chronic disease by 62.0%, and 64.7% recognized that it is not rare. Knowledge of symptoms varied: 48.4% knew that joint pain is not the only symptom and 64.9% were aware that osteoarthritis can reduce joint mobility. For risk factors, 30.8% did not know whether genetics contributes, 74.4% recognized aging as a contributor, and 48.0% correctly rejected equal prevalence in males and females. For diagnosis, 58.8% stated that physical examination and X-rays are used. No statistically significant association was found between knowledge category and sex (p = 0.615), age (p = 0.522) or education level (p = 0.839). Conclusion: Respondents showed substantial gaps and misconceptions in their knowledge of osteoarthritis. Many understood that the disease is chronic, but misunderstandings about its causes, risk factors and diagnostic methods persisted.