Obesity Contributes To Rapid Cartilage Loss

Kudos, fatsos.

"Obesity, among other factors, is strongly associated with an increased risk of rapid cartilage loss, according to a study published in the August issue of Radiology.

'We have isolated demographic and MRI-based risk factors for progressive cartilage loss,' said the study's lead author, Frank W. Roemer, M.D., adjunct associate professor at Boston University and co-director of the Quantitative Imaging Center at the Department of Radiology at Boston University School of Medicine. 'Increased baseline body mass index (BMI) was the only non-MRI-based predictor identified.'...

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting 27 million Americans, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage breaks down and, in severe cases, can completely wear away, leaving the joint without a cushion. The bones rub together, causing further damage, significant pain and loss of mobility.

The best way to prevent or slow cartilage loss and subsequent disability is to identify risk factors early."

And the fat expect the rest of us to pay for them when their joints wear-out.

Fight back, fit people. Stop being abused.