Expert opinions on the prevalence, diagnosis and treatment choice for osteoarthritis management in Indian settings

Abstract

Studies have reported the capability of bisphosphonates to delay the progression of structural deterioration associated with osteoarthritis (OA). Limited studies exist regarding OA management in India and the determinants influencing patients' decisions regarding surgical interventions. So, this study aimed to assess the prevalence, diagnostic practices, and treatment options available for OA management in Indian clinical practice with a special focus on alendronate, a bisphosphonate medication for OA pain management. The cross-sectional, multiple-response questionnaire-based study collected a survey response using a 25-item questionnaire from 276 clinicians across India. Additionally, the survey focused on determining the diagnostic practices helpful in determining osteoporosis and the preference of treatment options for OA management. Based on the responses of 276 participants, 43% indicated that the diagnosis of OA was predominant in both genders. Moreover, about 51% of the respondents suggested that mass screening for osteoporosis in Indian patients should be conducted using the one-minute risk test developed by the International Osteoporosis Foundation. Additionally, 47% of the respondents highlighted hip fractures as the most common type of bone fracture observed in these patients. Furthermore, around 51% of the study participants emphasized that adequate calcium consumption during childhood can potentially reduce the incidence of osteoporosis. For the effective management of OA, alendronate was preferred by 49% of respondents over the other bisphosphonates.As per the expert consensus,patients who have osteoporosis risk factors and osteopenia without fragility fractures were recommended to adhere to dietary and lifestyle modifications, coupled with calcium and vitamin D supplementation, and bisphosphonate therapy. Alendronate was preferred over other bisphosphonates for the effective management of OA.