Which of the following is a metabolic change-based OA risk factor?

• A. Metabolic changes within the body
• B. Regular exercise
• C. Adequate sleep
• D. Balanced diet

Answer: (A)

Metabolic changes inside the body contribute to osteoarthritis risk because they trigger systemic processes that affect joint tissues. Excess adipose tissue releases inflammatory mediators (adipokines and cytokines) and can cause chronic, low-grade inflammation. Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome alter how cartilage and subchondral bone respond to stress, promoting degradation and improper repair. These metabolic disturbances elevate OA risk beyond just mechanical load on the joints.

In contrast, regular exercise tends to lower OA risk by improving joint health and body composition, adequate sleep supports overall health, and a balanced diet helps metabolic efficiency—both of which can modulate risk, but they do not represent the metabolic changes themselves that drive OA.