Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a significant health concern, particularly within Malaysia’s ageing population. As a progressive, degenerative joint disease, OA affects mobility, causes chronic pain, and limits the quality of life for individuals. Current statistics reveal an increasing prevalence of OA in Malaysia, with an estimated 10-20% of the adult population affected. A recent Malaysian Elders Longitudinal Research (MELoR) study reported that nearly 27% of older adults experience knee OA symptoms. This rise is driven primarily by ageing demographics and rising obesity rates, with 54.4% of Malaysian adults currently classified as overweight or obese.
The economic burden of knee OA extends beyond healthcare costs, as it affects daily functioning, psychological well-being, and societal productivity. However, there remains a lack of local research examining the relationship between treatment methods and patient outcomes, which is crucial for developing efficient and patient-centred management approaches. For policymakers, addressing this issue is imperative to improve resource allocation within the healthcare system and enhance patient care outcomes.
To effectively tackle knee OA, it is crucial to formulate policies tailored to specific risk factors, such as gender and BMI. Research has shown that women, especially those experiencing prolonged knee pain, are at a higher risk of poorer health outcomes. Additionally, individuals with a higher BMI face an elevated risk of OA progression due to the increased mechanical load on their joints. By recognising and addressing these factors, healthcare policies can become more targeted and impactful, ensuring that vulnerable groups receive appropriate care. Programs promoting healthy weight management, gender-sensitive interventions, and improved health education can significantly enhance patient outcomes while optimizing resource use.
Effective knee OA management involves a spectrum of treatments, ranging from invasive joint replacement surgeries to minimally invasive injections and non-invasive therapies like physiotherapy, weight management, and exercise programs. Evidence suggests that minimally invasive treatments, such as intra-articular injections, offer promising results in pain relief and functional improvement. However, for lasting impact, these treatments must be complemented by public policies that integrate prevention and treatment strategies based on evidence-backed risk factors.
In conclusion, policymakers must prioritise risk factor-specific approaches, particularly those addressing gender disparities and obesity, to manage the growing OA burden. By aligning healthcare resources with these key determinants, Malaysia can ensure a more efficient, effective, and sustainable healthcare system while improving the quality of life for OA patients.
This article was written by Dr Mohamad Helmi bin Mohamad Yasim, DrPH Candidate and Associate Professor Dr Nik Daliana Nik Farid from the Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya.
The authors have also successfully published this article in Harian Metro, further highlighting the importance of addressing knee osteoarthritis through tailored policies and effective treatment approaches. To learn more, you can read the full article here: Pilih Rawatan Terbaik.
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