A new study involving more than 10,000 middle-aged and older adults suggests that good cardiovascular health may play a key role in reducing the risk of osteoarthritis—the most common form of arthritis—among the aging U.S. population.
Researchers analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and found a strong link between cardiovascular health, as measured by the American Heart Association’s “Life’s Essential 8,” and joint health outcomes. The “Life’s Essential 8” includes eight key metrics: diet quality, physical activity, sleep duration, nicotine exposure, body mass index, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar control.
Participants with high cardiovascular health scores were 57% less likely to develop osteoarthritis compared to those with poor cardiovascular health. Even those with moderate cardiovascular health saw a significant benefit, with a 31% reduced risk.
The protective effect was especially pronounced in adults aged 60 and older, underscoring the growing importance of cardiovascular wellness as people age. Among the study population, 22.4% of middle-aged and older individuals reported having osteoarthritis.
“Maintaining optimal cardiovascular health may help mitigate the risk of developing osteoarthritis,” the study authors noted.
Lifestyle factors commonly associated with heart health—such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, sufficient sleep, and avoiding tobacco—also appear to support joint health. The study found that both behavioral choices like diet and exercise, and clinical indicators like blood pressure and weight, independently contributed to a lower risk of osteoarthritis.
This suggests that a comprehensive approach to cardiovascular health could offer the most substantial joint protection.
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